Troops Record Major Rescues, Arrests, and Counter-Terror Gains Nationwide in One Week
Nigeria’s armed forces have recorded a series of significant operational successes across multiple theatres, rescuing kidnapped civilians, foiling attacks, arresting suspects, and neutralising insurgents in coordinated actions nationwide.
Security updates compiled over the past week indicate intensified military operations against criminal networks, insurgents, and bandits, with notable breakthroughs in Benue, Plateau, Borno, Yobe, Edo, Sokoto, Kogi, and Imo states.
In Benue State, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke rescued 13 passengers abducted from a commercial bus travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo. The victims, including candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), were freed during a search-and-rescue operation in a forest in Ohimini Local Government Area. They were subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
Plateau State recorded multiple interventions, including the arrest of nine suspected ethnic militia members linked to recent killings in Riyom Local Government Area. Troops also recovered arms and ammunition, while additional operations led to the arrest of suspects involved in violent attacks and the rescue of injured victims in separate incidents across Bassa, Barkin Ladi, and Jos North areas.
In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised terrorists and repelled attempted attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in Borno State. An improvised explosive device was also detected and safely detonated along a key route, preventing potential casualties. In neighbouring Yobe State, three suspected logistics suppliers linked to insurgent groups were arrested.
Further south, in Edo State, troops foiled a kidnap attempt in Auchi, rescuing victims and arresting five suspects. In Kogi State, security forces destroyed a suspected terrorist camp in Yagba West Local Government Area and intercepted a logistics courier.
Operations in the North-West saw troops repel an attack by armed terrorists in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where several civilians sustained injuries and were evacuated for medical care.
In the South-East, joint security forces uncovered and defused improvised explosive devices during a patrol in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, averting potential harm to residents.
Military authorities say the sustained operations reflect ongoing efforts to restore stability, disrupt criminal networks, and safeguard communities across the country. They noted that while challenges persist, continued patrols, intelligence-driven missions, and inter-agency collaboration remain central to addressing insecurity.
