ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Army has dealt a devastating series of blows to criminal networks across the country in a bloody 24-hour blitz, arresting 20 high-profile suspects, recovering an AK-47 rifle with specialized ammunition, and rescuing nine kidnapped victims.
The synchronized strikes, executed across the North East, North West, and North Central theatres, have effectively disrupted terrorist logistics chains and denied remnants of these groups any breathing space, according to a statement released by Army Headquarters.
North East: 14 Suspects Arrested in Borno
In the North East, elite troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade launched a surgical cordon-and-search operation at Ngurosoye Village in Bama Local Government Area, Borno State, acting on actionable intelligence.
The operation led to the arrest of 14 suspects, including individuals linked to the notorious kidnapper known as Baba Ali. Troops also seized significant logistics materials, including bags of fertilizer commonly used for manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Meanwhile, a combined force in Marte LGA engaged insurgents, forcing them to flee their positions and abandon bicycles and essential supplies during the encounter.
North West: Cattle Rustlers Thwarted, 3 Victims Rescued in Kaduna
Shifting to the North West, troops of the 4 Demo and 2 Battalions successfully thwarted major criminal activities in Kaduna State.
At Pan Daudu and Kuyello, soldiers intercepted cattle rustlers and terrorists, forcing them to abandon 96 head of livestock.
In the most significant operation in the theatre, troops engaged terrorists at Lahin Dan Auta, successfully rescuing three kidnapped victims who have since been reunited with their families. The Army described the rescue as proof of its rapid response capability.
North Central: Operation WHIRL STROKE Strikes Human Traffickers in Benue
In the North Central theatre, Sector 1 of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) delivered a heavy blow to human traffickers and armed gangs operating in Benue State.
A targeted raid in Gwer West Local Government Area led to the rescue of six victims and the apprehension of a suspected trafficker.
Furthermore, a fierce patrol in Guma LGA resulted in the arrest of three terrorists and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 27 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition — effectively disarming a dangerous cell.
Army Reaffirms Commitment to Citizen Safety
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its relentless resolve to securing the lives and property of all citizens.
“We urge the general public to remain vigilant and continue supporting our operations with timely information,” the statement read. “Together, we are building a safer Nigeria, where peace and progress are guaranteed for all.”
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the rescued victims nor the specific charges against the apprehended suspects, stating that investigations are ongoing.
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