Nigerian Army Neutralises 18 Terrorists, Arrests 37 Suspects in Nationwide Operations

Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded major operational gains across different parts of the country within the past 24 hours, eliminating 18 terrorists, arresting 37 suspects, and rescuing nine kidnapped victims during a series of coordinated security operations.

The operations, which were carried out based on intelligence reports, also led to the recovery of several weapons and logistics supplies believed to be linked to terrorist and criminal activities.

In the North-East, troops conducting follow-up operations after a recent terrorist assault on a military facility in Goniri discovered the bodies of nine terrorists along their withdrawal routes. During the operation, soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, two 60mm mortar bombs, two rocket-propelled grenade bombs, and nine belts containing assorted ammunition.

In a separate mission in Damaturu, Yobe State, troops working alongside local hunters conducted a cordon-and-search operation that resulted in the arrest of a suspected kidnapper.

Security personnel also recovered an AK-47 rifle and an empty magazine from the suspect.

Additional successes were recorded in other parts of the country. In Cross River State, troops responding to a distress call during a communal crisis in Obubra were ambushed by armed men while returning from the mission.

The soldiers repelled the attack and neutralised four gunmen, restoring calm to the area.

Similarly, troops on ambush duty in Konduga encountered insurgents, killing two of them while forcing others to escape.

In Edo State, soldiers engaged in operations targeting kidnapping networks killed three suspected kidnappers along the Ijon River axis of Etsako West. Communication devices and other items were recovered from the suspects.

Meanwhile, troops deployed under Operationp Whirl Stroke in Benue State rescued five abducted victims during a patrol operation. Security forces also arrested one suspected collaborator believed to be aiding terrorist activities.

Security operations in other regions also led to multiple arrests and the disruption of criminal supply chains. In Sokoto State, troops arrested 15 suspects and seized nine motorcycles alongside several jerrycans of fuel suspected to be intended for terrorist logistics.

In Kaduna State, troops working with other security agencies arrested four suspects during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts.

Operations carried out in Delta State resulted in the arrest of four suspected armed robbers and six alleged drug traffickers. Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, troops foiled an attempted weapons supply operation, recovering an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and ammunition while arresting two suspected recipients.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting communities from security threats. According to the military, the recent operations demonstrate ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist groups, disrupt criminal networks, and enhance safety across the nation.

The Army also called on citizens to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely information, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to maintaining peace and security in the country.