Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army has announced the elimination of eight terrorists and the rescue of 40 abducted individuals in a series of coordinated operations across the country. The operations, which targeted terrorist hideouts and logistics routes, also led to the capture of a notorious arms courier and the recovery of a significant cache of ammunition.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, the Army revealed that its recent successes have further tightened the grip on terrorist groups and their collaborators. Among the key achievements was the arrest of an arms courier found with 303 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition during a stop-and-search operation on the Lafia-Keffi Road in Nasarawa State on September 28.
“The suspect and the vehicle were immediately taken into custody, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend his accomplices,” the statement said.
Targeted Strikes and Firearm Seizures
In Kaduna State, precision strikes by the Army’s forces near Danmari and Saulawa villages in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area led to the elimination of one terrorist. Another operation in Kachia Local Government Area resulted in the deaths of two more terrorists, the recovery of a locally made firearm, 11 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, and a motorcycle used by the assailants.
In Borno State, the Army reported recovering two AK-47 rifles and large quantities of ammunition following engagements with fleeing terrorists in Faayijiwa Fandanari village, Magumeri Local Government Area. Hard drugs and other supplies were also seized, with the terrorists abandoning their weapons after being overwhelmed by the Army’s superior firepower.
Hostage Rescue and Logistic Disruption
The Army’s anti-terror efforts saw further successes in Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State, where troops intercepted terrorists attempting to relocate abducted victims from Cijin village. The terrorists fled, leaving behind 38 hostages, including six men, eight women, and 24 children, who were safely rescued by the troops.
In a separate operation in Gwoza Local Government Area, three terrorists were neutralized near Ashigashiya village, while vigilant troops intercepted a convoy transporting food supplies intended for terrorist camps in Gubio. Three vehicles were seized, and the sum of N2,400 was recovered during the operation.
Meanwhile, in Yobe State, an ambush set by troops in Sasawa village, Damaturu Local Government Area, led to the neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and a motorcycle. The ambush was staged in response to reports of terrorists extorting civilians in the area.
Commendation for Troops’ Efforts
The Chief of Army Staff commended the troops for their bravery and relentless efforts to secure peace. He also expressed appreciation to citizens who have provided credible information that contributed to the recent successes.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to obliterate terrorism and safeguard the lives of all Nigerians,” the statement added.
The ongoing operations are part of the military’s broader strategy to dismantle terrorist networks and neutralize threats across various states in Nigeria.
