Yuletide: Military intensifies operations, kills or arrests 484 terrorists in latest campaign
By Trek Africa Newspaper
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced a significant victory in the fight against terrorism, with over 484 terrorists either killed or arrested in the latest military operations.
Major General Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations in a statement signed and released on Friday noted that in a series of coordinated efforts, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made substantial gains in their ongoing military operations, aimed at protecting the country from terrorist aggression and ensuring sustainable peace.
He said as of December 20, 2024, troops have increased their readiness and are on high alert, particularly during the yuletide season.
He noted that robust operations targeted at terrorist leadership are being conducted across various theatres of operations.
Notably, high-profile terrorists Hamisu Sale (aka Master) and Abubakar Muhammad were arrested during separate operations in the North Central theatre of operation. The duo are cooperating and providing valuable intelligence on the terror network.
Similarly, troops in the North West theatre of operation arrested another high-profile terrorist, Bako Wurgi, linked to the murder of the Sokoto Monarch and a staunch ally of wanted terrorist Bello Turji. Although Bako Wurgi succumbed to gunshot injuries, he provided valuable intelligence before his demise.
During the week under review, troops neutralized 212 terrorists, arrested 272 persons, and rescued 152 kidnapped hostages. Additionally, troops denied oil thieves the estimated sum of N1,193,817,760.00 in the South-South region.
The military also recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, including 247 assorted weapons and 6,174 assorted ammunition. Other items recovered include vehicles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and various other equipment.
In the Niger Delta area, troops discovered and destroyed 35 crude oil cooking ovens, 27 dugout pits, and 61 illegal refining sites.
According to him, troops also recovered 940,372 litres of stolen crude oil, 252,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 132 litres of PMS.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to achieving sustainable peace in the nation by ensuring that terrorists are held accountable for any acts of aggression against citizens.
The statement further urged the citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
