By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian military successfully neutralized 108 terrorists and rescued 214 hostages across various regions in the past week, according to a statement released by Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, on Friday in Abuja.
During this operation, troops apprehended 204 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements, recovering a significant cache of 66 assorted weapons and 4,087 rounds of ammunition. Among the weapons seized were 37 AK-47 rifles, one dushka, one machine gun, two general-purpose machine guns, and an RPG launcher.
Additionally, the military confiscated nine live cartridges, various vehicles, motorcycles, and communication equipment, including two handheld radios. A sum of N4.9 million was also recovered.
In specific regions:
- North East: Troops under Operation Hadin Kai neutralized 47 terrorists, arrested 18 suspects, and rescued 130 hostages. A total of 622 terrorists surrendered, including 90 men, 182 women, and 350 children. The air component successfully targeted a terrorist hideout and IED factory in the Mandara Mountains, resulting in significant enemy losses.
- North Central: Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke led to the elimination of 13 insurgents, the apprehension of 57 extremists, and the rescue of 36 hostages.
- North West: Operation Hadarin Daji neutralized 15 terrorists, arrested 22, and rescued 27 hostages across Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. An airstrike in Katsina State targeted and destroyed a terrorist enclave, killing several militants.
- South-South: Operation Delta Safe led to the recovery of over 1.13 million liters of stolen crude oil and other illegally refined products. Troops also dismantled illegal refining sites and arrested 32 suspected oil thieves.
- South East: Operation UDO KA neutralized five terrorists, arrested 12 extremists, and rescued four hostages.
All rescued hostages and seized items were handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action. This coordinated military effort marks a significant blow against terrorism and criminal activities across Nigeria.