In an extensive and aggressive campaign against terrorist groups, the Nigerian military has reported significant successes, including the neutralization of 197 terrorists and the capture of 310 suspects. This development was detailed in a press briefing held in Abuja by Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations.
The military’s intensified operations span across various regions of the country, reflecting a broad and coordinated effort to dismantle terrorist networks and their infrastructure. These operations have led to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition, underscoring the scale and severity of the threat posed by these groups.
Among the recovered items were a variety of firearms, ranging from AK-47 rifles and PKT guns to locally fabricated weapons and pistols. Additionally, the military seized hand grenades, mortar bombs, and numerous rounds of ammunition. The sheer volume and variety of the recovered weaponry highlight the sophisticated and diverse arsenal available to the terrorist groups, posing a significant challenge to national security.
The operations also resulted in the confiscation of communication devices, vehicles, and motorcycles, which are critical to the operational capabilities of these terrorist groups. These items included mobile phones, radios, and various types of vehicles, indicating the logistical and operational support systems that the terrorists rely on. Furthermore, the military seized substantial amounts of cash, both in Nigerian Naira and West African CFA franc, which are believed to be used in financing terrorist activities.
Expanding their reach, the military’s operations also targeted the Niger Delta region, which is notorious for illegal oil activities. Troops uncovered and disrupted numerous illegal operations, seizing large quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products. This includes hundreds of thousands of liters of crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). By dismantling various infrastructure elements used in these illicit activities—such as dugout pits, boats, storage tanks, cooking ovens, drums, and illegal refining sites—the military has struck a significant blow to the economic lifelines of these criminal networks.
Major General Buba reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to defeating terrorist groups and emphasized the need for public support. He called on citizens to cooperate with the military and provide any information that could aid in the ongoing efforts to ensure lasting peace and security in Nigeria. The General’s statements underscore the importance of a unified front in the fight against terrorism, where the involvement of the local population is crucial in identifying and neutralizing threats.
