Armed Forces Intensify Operations Against Kidnappers, Terrorists

In response to the surge in kidnappings across the country, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified their military operations, targeting impactful blows against terrorist groups and criminal elements.

This is contained in a statement by
the Director of Defence Media Operations,
Major General Edward Buba in Abuja.

The statement acknowledges the distress caused by kidnappings and expresses empathy towards affected families.

It further assures citizens that the military is collaborating with other security services and stakeholders to gather intelligence on kidnapping gangs, especially in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Director of Defence Media Operations explains that troops have increased ground and air surveillance in areas prone to kidnappings and are deploying advanced technologies to detect and neutralize criminal hideouts effectively.

The statement notes that troops have successfully cleared areas such as Kawu, Gaba, Deidei, and others in the FCT, as well as conducting operations in Niger and Kaduna States.

According to the statement, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI also eliminated three top ISWAP terrorists commanders in Borno State.

General Buba reveals that this week’s operations led to the neutralization of 43 terrorists, the arrest of 76 individuals, including 29 oil theft perpetrators, and the rescue of 27 kidnapped hostages.

The Director further states that troops recovered 81 assorted weapons, 2,150 ammunition, and various items, including vehicles, motorcycles, phones, cash, stolen crude oil, and several dismantled illegal refining sites.

Major General Buba emphasizes the armed forces’ commitment to addressing security threats, pledging continuous reviews of internal processes to create a safer environment for citizens in the face of persistent threats from kidnapping gangs and terrorists.

PR/Aisha Adesanya