Army arrests over 20 suspected terrorists in nationwide operations
Nigerian Army Arrests Over 20 Suspected Terrorists Nationwide
ABUJA — The Nigerian Army has apprehended more than 20 individuals suspected of terrorism and other criminal activities during a nationwide operation in the last 24 hours. This is part of the military’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgent activities across the country.
According to an operational report released from the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday, the arrests resulted from intelligence-led missions conducted in collaboration with various security agencies and local vigilantes. The operations targeted known terrorist hideouts, kidnapping syndicates, and criminal networks in several states.
In Kogi State, troops from the 12 Brigade, working alongside the Nigerian Police and local vigilantes, carried out offensive operations in Kakuma Ileteju/Origa and Ijumu villages. During these efforts, two suspected terrorists were detained, and authorities recovered two motorcycles and two chainsaw machines.
In Kaduna State, troops from Sector 1 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA apprehended a suspect in Afaka who reportedly left a terrorist camp due to internal disputes among the group’s leaders.
The report added that in Sokoto State, troops from the COAS Intervention Battalion VII, along with personnel from the 8 Division Nigerian Army Stalkers, conducted operations in the Tangaza Local Government Area. They dismantled a terrorist camp and recovered two camouflage trousers.
In an indication of the cross-border nature of terrorist activities, troops rescued a Nigerien national held for over three weeks in Niger State. The operations in this region resulted in the disposal of one improvised explosive device (IED), the detention of five suspects, and the destruction of terrorist camps and illegal mining sites.
Kwara State saw additional success, where troops responding to a distress call forced terrorists to flee, rescuing three kidnap victims.
In Edo State, multiple incidents were reported, leading to the rescue of victims and the arrest of five suspected kidnappers. One AK-47 rifle, nine rounds of ammunition, and three mobile phones were also recovered.
Further operations led to the rescue of two farmers kidnapped in Delta State, where troops arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) at Umunede Junction.
In Akwa Ibom State, troops from the 2 Brigade raided drug hideouts, arresting six suspects and seizing 20 kilograms of cannabis sativa, 120 grams of Canadian Loud, and various other narcotics, as well as 431,500 naira.
In Rivers State, operations dismantled illegal bunkering infrastructure, recovering numerous items including pipes, hoses, and various drums used in illicit activities.
In Plateau State, troops from Operation ENDURING PEACE arrested nine individuals and seized an assortment of firearms and ammunition, as well as three motorcycles and several mobile phones.
Additionally, in Abia State, personnel discovered sacks containing suspected stolen crude oil hidden along the Imo River, following operational directives.
The Nigerian Army continues to emphasize its commitment to restoring security and stability in the region.
