In a major boost to the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the country, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has dealt a devastating blow to terrorist groups operating in the North East, North-West, and South-South regions of the country, neutralizing 127 terrorists and apprehending 43 others.
Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Markus Kangye, told journalists in Abuja on Thursday that the intensified offensive operations have yielded significant results, with terrorists suffering heavy losses in men and equipment.
General Kangye said: “In the past week, our troops have been on the offensive, conducting series of ambushes, raids, and fighting patrols against terrorist hideouts. The results have been impressive, with 127 insurgents neutralized and 43 others apprehended.”
He added that in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai conducted a series of ambushes and raids on terrorist hideouts, resulting in the neutralization of 67 insurgents and the recovery of 17 AK-47 rifles, 23 locally fabricated guns, and 1,234 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
In North West, one of the notable successes recorded by the troops was the neutralization of a notorious terrorist leader, identified as Babangida, in Kinpin Dan Sa’adi enclave in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State.
“The neutralization of Babangida is a major blow to the terrorist group, as he was one of their top commanders. His death will surely deal a devastating blow to their operations,” said the DDMO.
Similarly, in the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe conducted a series of operations against crude oil thieves and other criminals, recovering 247,629 litres of stolen crude oil and 198,374 litres of illegally refined petroleum products, valued at approximately N461,783,868.00.
Kangye noted that “the military will continue to intensify its operations against terrorist groups and other criminals, with a view to restoring peace and security to all parts of the country. We will not rest on our oars until we achieve this goal.”
The Defence Headquarters has also commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, urging them to continue to exhibit the same level of commitment and dedication to duty.
“The gallant men and women of the AFN will continue to carry out their constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and properties of all Nigerians in line with our constitutional roles, Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct for Internal Security Operations,” said General Kangye.
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