The Nigerian military says its troops neutralized at least 31 terrorists and rescued several kidnapped victims during coordinated counter-terrorism operations carried out across the country between April 17 and April 23.
Director of Defense Media Operations, Michael Onoja, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
According to him, troops under Operation HADIN KAI recorded significant gains in the North-East, including the killing of 21 terrorists during a foiled attack at Kukareta along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road in Yobe State. Additional insurgents were also neutralized during ambushes and fighting patrols in parts of Borno State and Yobe, with arms and ammunition recovered.
Onoja further revealed that troops rescued nine captives who had escaped from the Mandara Mountains, thwarting attempts by terrorists to recapture them. He also noted that a suspected logistics supplier transporting fuel concealed in sachet water bags to terrorist locations was intercepted.
In the Northwest, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out ambushes and clearance operations in Kaduna State and Zamfara State, leading to the neutralization of terrorists, destruction of camps, and rescue of abducted victims. A suspected courier transporting materials for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) was also intercepted.
Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE, and WHIRL STROKE in the North-Central zone resulted in the arrest of suspected terrorists and collaborators, alongside the rescue of more kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered weapons, ammunition, and explosive materials while dismantling illegal hideouts.
In the South-East, troops under Operation UDO KA arrested suspected members of proscribed groups and other criminal elements, including individuals linked to attacks on security personnel.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism in the ongoing operations.
