The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have intensified nationwide operations against terrorists, kidnappers, oil thieves, and other criminal elements, recording significant successes across multiple theatres between May 30 and June 6, 2025.
The Director Defence Media Operations Major General Markus Kangye disclosed that troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, conducted kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at ensuring national security, stabilizing communities, and safeguarding economic infrastructure.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East received scores of terrorists, including members of ISWAP and JAS factions, who surrendered along with their families between May 30 and June 4, 2025. In intensified offensive operations in Dikwa, Gwoza, Bama, Kondugga, Damboa, and Abadam, troops neutralized several terrorists, arrested six, and rescued 22 kidnapped victims.
In separate operations, troops arrested 16 terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators in Yobe and Borno States, recovering improvised explosive device (IED) components, communication gadgets, motorcycles, and cash.
Non-kinetic efforts also yielded results as 12 kidnapped victims escaped from terrorist camps in Kukawa LGA, Borno State, and were successfully received by troops.
In the North-West, Operation FASAN YAMMA troops engaged in fierce firefights in Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara States, neutralizing terrorists and arresting three. Four kidnapped victims were rescued and arms, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered.
A major breakthrough was recorded in Sokoto and Niger States, where troops arrested a female ally of a notorious terrorist leader, Kamalu, along with three accomplices.
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN in Plateau and Kaduna States conducted offensive and anti-kidnapping operations that led to the death of several extremists, arrest of 11 suspects, and rescue of six kidnapped victims. Operations also extended to the Plateau-Taraba border.
In Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops conducted sweeping raids in Nasarawa, Benue, Taraba, and Kogi States. Multiple extremists and criminals were neutralized, and 13 suspects—including known criminals—were apprehended. Items recovered included arms, military uniforms, motorcycles, and over ₦970,000 in cash.
Operation DELTA SAFE troops continued aggressive actions against economic sabotage in the Niger Delta. Over 77,000 litres of stolen crude oil and thousands of litres of illegally refined products were recovered. Troops destroyed 18 illegal refining sites and confiscated refining equipment, boats, engines, and vehicles. At least 27 suspects were arrested, and arms and ammunition were seized.
In anti-criminality operations in Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa States, 16 criminals were apprehended with weapons, electronics, and stolen property.
Under Operation UDO KA, troops arrested four suspected criminals in Ebonyi and Anambra States, recovering arms, ammunition, and a vehicle. The suspects have been handed over for further investigation and prosecution.
The Defence Headquarters according to the General Markus Kangye praised the courage and professionalism of troops across all theatres. “The success of ongoing operations is a testament to the determination and resilience of our troops, who continue to work tirelessly to secure our nation,” he said.
He assured the public of the military’s unwavering commitment to denying terrorists and criminals freedom of action and called on citizens to continue supporting the armed forces with timely and credible information.
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