From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that troops across multiple theatres of operation arrested over 450 terrorists and other criminal elements, rescued 180 kidnapped victims, and recovered several weapons and equipment during military operations conducted across the country in September.
The development was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, in Abuja.
He said the operations were executed under various joint task forces, including Operations Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Enduring Peace, Whirl Stroke, Delta Safe, and Udo Ka, covering different regions of the country.
According to Kangye, troops also recovered 63 assorted arms, 4,475 rounds of ammunition, and 294 operational items, such as grenades, improvised explosive device (IED) materials, motorcycles, vehicles, and handheld radios.
He added that 39 terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the troops during the operations.
“Our primary objectives were to disrupt enemy capabilities, secure key terrains, and support humanitarian efforts,” Major General Kangye said.
“I can tell you that significant progress has been made. The operations remain ongoing, and our commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure stability and prevent further escalation.”
In the South-South, troops under Operation Delta Safe intercepted illegal oil operations valued at ₦112.1 million, destroyed 41 refining sites, and seized thousands of litres of stolen petroleum products. In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS terrorists, successfully denying them freedom of movement and regrouping.
The North-West and North-Central regions also witnessed significant operational successes. Troops of Operations Fansan Yamma, Enduring Peace, and Whirl Stroke carried out clearance operations and responded swiftly to distress calls on terrorist attacks in several communities, while in the South-East, Operation Udo Ka maintained an offensive posture against violent groups and criminal hideouts.
“The Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies and hybrid forces, remain resolute in ensuring peace and stability across troubled regions,” the Defence Headquarters reiterated.
“Our troops have shown courage and professionalism in neutralising threats and safeguarding communities across Nigeria.”
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that the ongoing nationwide operations are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at dismantling criminal networks, strengthening community confidence, and restoring normalcy across all conflict-affected zones.