FG: Joint intelligence, operations crippling criminal networks

The Federal Government has said that coordinated use of intelligence and joint security operations is breaking the backbone of kidnapping syndicates and other criminal networks. Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, disclosed this on Monday during the Monthly Joint Security Press Briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja. He said the […]

The Federal Government has said that coordinated use of intelligence and joint security operations is breaking the backbone of kidnapping syndicates and other criminal networks.

Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, disclosed this on Monday during the Monthly Joint Security Press Briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

He said the briefing, directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Office of the National Security Adviser, was created to give Nigerians verified updates on security operations and counter fake news.

Issa-Onilu noted that in August alone, the Nigerian Army executed 261 operations nationwide, while the police carried out 210 operations, leading to 1,950 arrests, the dismantling of 57 gangs, and the rescue of 141 kidnap victims. He added that the NDLEA seized over 66,000 kilograms of narcotics, secured 17 convictions, and rehabilitated 854 users.

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He said the EFCC also secured 588 convictions and recovered more than N21 billion during the month under review. He added that ICPC recovered N5.5 billion and over $368,000 from fraudulent activities in the public sector.

“When intelligence meets joint action, kidnapping syndicates and criminal pipelines fail,” he said. “This is a core component of the strategy being deployed to degrade the enemies of our country and protect citizens.”

He explained that security agencies were intensifying both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including community dialogue and the provision of critical support such as schools and health facilities. He added that protecting civilians remains central to all operations.

The NOA boss noted that security comes with sacrifices, acknowledging troops and civilians who lost their lives in August. He prayed for the repose of the fallen and healing for the wounded.

“Security does not begin on the battlefield,” he said. “It begins with values, our truthfulness, our vigilance, and our shared resolve to protect this country.”