The Nigerian Army has made significant strides in its ongoing operations aimed at tackling the scourge of terrorism, kidnapping, and various forms of criminal activity across the country.
In a comprehensive statement released on Tuesday via its official X handle, the Army detailed several successful operations that have led to the rescue of kidnap victims, the arrest of notorious criminal elements, and the disruption of terrorist networks.
One of the key highlights of these operations was the successful rescue of a former Local Government chairman who had been abducted. According to the Army, troops stationed in Kogi State responded to a distress call regarding the kidnapping of the former Chairman of Kabba Local Government Area.
The incident occurred in Egbe Community, Yagba Local Government Area, where the soldiers confronted and engaged the kidnappers in a tense standoff within the dense Egbe Forest. The operation culminated in the capture of one of the suspects and the safe rescue of the victim, who has since been reunited with his family. Among those apprehended wasÂ
Mohammed Bello, a notorious leader of a kidnapping syndicate consisting of seven members. Bello and his gang had long been on the radar of security agencies for their involvement in a string of abductions targeting unsuspecting citizens in the region.
In a separate but equally important operation, the Army reported a foiled kidnapping attempt in Ebonyi State. Soldiers acting on intelligence intercepted a suspect in Ezza-Umuhuali Village of Ishielu Local Government Area.
The suspect was found in possession of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card, 48 different international passports, and other suspicious items, raising concerns about the possible use of these documents in illegal activities.
In the northeastern state of Borno, which has been a hotspot for Boko Haram activity, the Army made significant inroads into dismantling the terrorist group’s infrastructure. Acting on credible intelligence, troops apprehended two key Boko Haram commanders,
Bana Yamode and Babagana Usman, who had infiltrated the Damasak Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Mobbar Local Government Area. The suspects, who claimed to be visiting family members within the camp, were linked to several high-profile attacks on military installations in the region. Their capture is seen as a major blow to Boko Haram’s operational capabilities in the area.
Additionally, the same operation led to the arrest of two individuals identified as Mustapha Ismaila, 49, and Abdulmudalabi Haruna, 30, who were suspected of being logistics suppliers for Boko Haram. These arrests are critical, as they disrupt the supply chains that sustain terrorist operations in the region. During the operation, troops also successfully rescued two minors who had been caught in the crossfire of these dangerous networks.
The Army’s efforts have not only been reactive but also proactive, as evidenced by the surrender of 50 Boko Haram suspects and their families to military personnel in the Bama, Gwoza, and Dikwa Local Government Areas of Borno State. This mass surrender is attributed to the intensified military operations that have placed significant pressure on the terrorist group, forcing many of its members to lay down their arms.
Further success was recorded in Yobe State, where the Army arrested three Boko Haram collaborators at Gubio Market in Gubio Local Government Area. The suspects reportedly confessed to being involved in both kidnapping and armed robbery activities, contributing to the terror and instability in the region.
In Jigawa State, the Army reported the arrest of nine hoodlums who had been involved in the looting of a shop in Kazaure town. The troops recovered a large haul of stolen goods, including 255 bags of fertilizer, three bags of rice, a solar panel, and five motorcycles. These arrests are part of broader efforts to curb the rising tide of criminality in the state and restore law and order.
Meanwhile, in Plateau State, the Army’s crackdown on criminal activities continued with the arrest of five suspected cultists. Additionally, another suspect involved in the theft of motorcycles was apprehended, highlighting the Army’s comprehensive approach to tackling crime at all levels.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, commended the troops for their relentless efforts and commitment to the fight against terrorism and insurgency. He praised their courage and professionalism in carrying out these operations, which have significantly contributed to the safety and security of
Tthe nation. Lieutenant General Lagbaja also made a strong appeal to the public, urging citizens to support security agencies by providing credible information that could further enhance the effectiveness of ongoing operations. He emphasized that the fight against terrorism and criminality is a collective responsibility, and public cooperation is essential for achieving lasting peace and security.
These developments underscore the Nigerian Army’s ongoing commitment to eradicating terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of criminal activity from the country. As the Army continues its operations,
The successes recorded so far serve as a testament to the effectiveness of its strategies and the dedication of its personnel. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and supportive, as the Army strives to restore peace and stability across the nation.
