How 6-Day Nationwide Operation Resulted in 71 Arrests
A six-day nationwide military operation has yielded significant results, with the arrest of 71 suspects and the rescue of kidnapped victims. The operation, which was conducted between 1 and 6 of September 2025, across various regions of the country, aimed to crack down on criminal activities and restore security. The operation also resulted in the […]
A six-day nationwide military operation has yielded significant results, with the arrest of 71 suspects and the rescue of kidnapped victims.
The operation, which was conducted between 1 and 6 of September 2025, across various regions of the country, aimed to crack down on criminal activities and restore security.
The operation also resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and stolen livestock.
The military also destroyed several hideouts and camps used by the criminals.
The rescued victims, who were kidnapped by the terrorists, are currently receiving medical attention and counseling.
The military has assured that they will be reunited with their families soon.
The operation is part of the military’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity and terrorism in the country. The military has pledged to sustain the tempo of the operation until all forms of criminality are eradicated.
In the North East, troops of 117 Task Force Battalion, supported by Civilian Joint Task Force and vigilantes, engaged terrorists at Yimurmuze in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, neutralizing one terrorist and recovering an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 24 rounds of ammunition.
Similarly, troops of 159 Battalion in Geidam LGA neutralized another terrorist, seizing an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and additional ammunition.
In Askira Uba, Adamawa State, 115 Task Force Battalion arrested eight suspected cattle rustlers, recovering a Dane gun, cartridges, knives, bows and arrows, and mobile phones. Troops also discovered improvised explosive devices in New Marte, further disrupting terrorist activities in the area.
In the North West, a joint operation by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and ground troops struck terrorist hideouts at Zango in Katsina State, killing up to 15 terrorists according to intercepted communications, and forcing others to flee with gunshot wounds.
Meanwhile, in Sokoto State, troops of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion arrested two terrorist informants and logistics suppliers in Gudu LGA.
In the North Central region, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized one armed herder during a firefight in Logo LGA of Benue State, recovering an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. In Niger State, troops rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered 28 rustled cows following air and ground operations in Mariga LGA.
Other nationwide operations also yielded major results. In Kaduna State, 19 suspects were arrested during raid operations in Unguwan Dosa, Rigasa, Mando, Tudun Wada, and other areas.
In Rivers State, troops uncovered 35 sacks of illegally refined products amounting to about 1,750 litres, arresting one suspect despite resistance from suspected bunkerers.
In Delta State, soldiers working with the NDLEA arrested three drug peddlers in Sapele, seizing cocaine, tramadol, and other illicit substances.
Similarly, in Oshimili South LGA, troops arrested two suspected IPOB/ESN members linked to improvised explosive device production.
The Nigerian Army also conducted successful operations in Lagos, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory, leading to the arrest of armed robbers, kidnappers, drug peddlers, and other criminal elements, while recovering firearms, ammunition, and illicit substances.
The Nigerian Army High Command says it has continued to intensified its nationwide operations, neutralizing more terrorists, arresting seven criminals including a female terrorist logistics supplier, and recovering two AK-47 rifles, a stolen vehicle, petroleum products, and other items between 4 and 6 September 2025.
On 6 September, troops of 192 Battalion with Hybrid Force, while returning from an ambush position, engaged Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)/JAS terrorists around Kwatara Kasa Village along Gwoza–Limankara Road in Borno State. Following a fierce fire fight, troops neutralized one terrorist while others fled towards the Mandara Mountains.
In Adamawa State, troops of 232 Battalion intercepted two suspected petroleum smugglers in Mubi South LGA with 19 jerrycans of petroleum products loaded on motorcycles. Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, acting on a tip-off and in liaison with the Department of State Services (DSS), 1 Brigade troops arrested a female logistics supplier linked to notorious terrorist kingpin Ado Aliero at Kucheri in Tsafe LGA. The suspect, who admitted to also being a drug peddler, was found in possession of a mobile phone, ₦37,000 cash, and other sundry items.
In the Federal Capital Territory, 176 Guards Battalion mounted a snap roadblock to intercept a stolen vehicle from Osun State. The suspects fled but were tracked to a hotel in Gwagwalada, where three criminals were arrested. Troops recovered the stolen vehicle, 11 mobile phones, and ₦29,700 cash before handing the suspects and exhibits over to the police.
Similarly, in Plateau State, troops of operation ENDURING PEACE secured a breakthrough following the earlier arrest of a terrorist informant at Dadin Kowa on 4 September. During interrogation, the suspect revealed the location of hidden weapons in Mista Ali Village, Bassa LGA. He attempted to escape while leading troops to the cache and was neutralized. Troops recovered two AK-47 rifles from the hideout, while efforts are ongoing to track down his accomplices.
These operations underscore the Nigerian Army’s determination to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt criminal activities, and recover illicit arms throughout the nation.