The Nigerian Army has intensified its counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations across multiple states, recording significant successes within the last 24 hours. According to a military source at the Army Headquarters, troops eliminated three terrorists, rescued 11 kidnap victims, arrested several criminal suspects, and recovered stolen livestock, weapons, and other incriminating items during coordinated missions spanning Benue, Katsina, Kogi, Adamawa, Imo, Plateau, and Kaduna States.
The Army source confirmed that troops successfully freed a total of 11 kidnap victims during separate rescue missions. Five victims were rescued in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, another five in Kukasheka Ward, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, and two in Lokoja, Kogi State. The victims were immediately taken to safe locations, provided medical attention where necessary, and reunited with their families. These rescues, the source explained, highlight the commitment of troops to safeguarding the lives of Nigerians in the face of criminal elements.
In counter-terrorism operations, troops engaged violent extremists in Benue and Katsina States. In Katsina, soldiers neutralized two terrorists in separate encounters, recovering an AK-47 rifle, live ammunition, and a motorcycle. The swift action prevented further attacks in the area and restored calm to surrounding communities. In Benue State, one violent extremist was gunned down after an exchange of fire. Troops recovered a mobile phone and a collection of charms from the neutralized suspect, items believed to have been used for criminal operations and intimidation of locals.
One of the most significant breakthroughs occurred in Imo State, where troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade, in collaboration with other security agencies, arrested a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta, also known as “Gentle de Yahoo.” The operation, conducted at his hideout in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area, led to the recovery of an English pistol, 120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, one cartridge, and six mobile phones. Troops also seized police and military uniforms, as well as a German flag believed to symbolize his group’s operations. In addition, security forces uncovered a criminal workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled and resold. At the scene, 10 motorcycles used for illegal activities were destroyed to cripple the syndicate’s operations.
Elsewhere in Plateau State, troops retrieved 40 rustled cattle during an anti-banditry operation. The animals were promptly returned to their rightful owners, an action that further strengthened community trust in the Nigerian Army’s efforts to protect lives and livelihoods.
Troops also arrested 11 criminal suspects across Benue, Kogi, and Kaduna States in connection with armed robbery, gunrunning, and extremist activities. The operations yielded a variety of weapons, including pistols, ammunition, and other dangerous items. Stolen goods recovered during the raids were secured and are expected to aid further investigations. These arrests have disrupted several criminal networks across the region and reaffirm the Army’s commitment to dismantling all forms of organized crime that threaten peace and stability.
The Nigerian Army has assured citizens that its operations will continue until all terror cells, bandit groups, and criminal gangs are neutralized. The coordinated missions highlight a multi-pronged approach that combines rescue efforts, intelligence-led arrests, recovery of stolen property, and the elimination of violent actors. The source further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by providing timely information on suspicious activities. He emphasized that defeating terrorism and violent crime requires joint effort between the military and the civilian population.
In recent months, the Nigerian Army has scaled up its operations nationwide in response to rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, and separatist violence. These latest achievements, spanning seven states, signal the military’s determination to reclaim troubled areas and restore lasting peace to affected communities.
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