The Nigerian military says it made major gains in July, killing top terrorist commanders, rescuing over 130 kidnapped victims, and stopping oil theft worth more than N1.3 billion.
Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this on Friday during a briefing in Abuja. He said the operations showed the military’s strong resolve to defeat terrorists and restore peace in the country.
According to him, five high-profile terror leaders were killed during operations in the North East and North West. The commanders eliminated include Yellow Danbokolo, Amir Dunkei, Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu, and Ali Yar Daribiyar.
“In total, 578 suspected terrorists and other criminals were arrested, while 134 kidnapped victims were rescued and reunited with their families,” Kangye said.
He also revealed that a wanted terrorist commander, Ibn Ali, surrendered along with 151 fighters and their families.
In separate operations, troops arrested several other suspects, including gunrunners, kidnappers, and extremist leaders. Those apprehended include Yakubu Jubril, Abubakar Yahaya, Mohammed Hamisu (aka Mamiyo), and cult kingpin Prince Justin Ishimiri.
On the economic front, Kangye said troops under Operation DELTA SAFE prevented oil theft and sabotage estimated at over N1.31 billion in the Niger Delta.
Troops recovered nearly one million litres of stolen crude oil, along with thousands of litres of illegally refined fuel. They also destroyed 126 cooking ovens, 73 illegal refining sites, 39 boats, and 35 vehicles used by oil thieves.
A total of 285 suspects were arrested during these operations, with large amounts of weapons and explosives recovered.
Kangye praised the efforts of the armed forces under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. He said all operations were guided by professionalism, human rights, and a strong sense of duty.
“The tide is turning against the enemies of the state, and we will sustain the momentum,” he said.