The Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in its fight against terrorism and crime, killing 23 terrorists, rescuing 26 captives, and arresting 14 suspects in a series of operations across Katsina, Borno, Adamawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Military sources said the operations were carried out between September 6 and 8, involving coordinated ground and air offensives.
In Katsina State, troops of the 17 Brigade, in collaboration with the Defence Special Operations Force and the Air Component of Operation FANSAR YAMMA, stormed Pauwa village in Kankara Local Government Area.
The operation included a fierce gun battle on Pauwa Hill, supported by artillery and airstrikes.
“During the encounter, 23 terrorists were neutralised. Troops also rescued 12 women and 11 children who were held captive by the terrorists,” a military source disclosed.
The troops destroyed several motorcycles, spare parts, food items, and logistics used by the terrorists during the operation.
In Borno State, four family members of ISWAP/JAS fighters—two women and two children—surrendered to troops of the 192 Battalion in Gwoza Local Government Area. They reportedly fled from Lekshe village before turning themselves in. They are currently undergoing profiling and security checks.
Also in Borno, troops of the 19 Brigade arrested a suspected logistics supplier to terrorists in Kukawa Local Government Area. He was caught while trying to transport supplies from Cross Kauwa to Dawoshi village.
Recovered from the suspect were ₦55,000 cash, a wristwatch, and a mobile phone.
Military officials say the arrest is a major step in disrupting the supply network of terrorist groups operating in the region.
In Adamawa State, troops of the 232 Battalion carried out a successful raid on a known criminal hideout in Muva village, located in Mubi North Local Government Area.
During the operation, five suspects believed to be involved in theft and drug trafficking were arrested. They were handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
The military also made arrests in the Federal Capital Territory. Troops of the 102 Guards Battalion under the Dei-Dei Quick Response Group arrested three suspects linked to phone snatching and other street crimes around Dei-Dei, Dakwa, and Zuba.
The suspects were found in possession of four mobile phones and a smartwatch believed to have been stolen.
Military sources said the operation is part of efforts to maintain law and order in the nation’s capital and surrounding areas.
In a separate development in Katsina, troops rescued three locals who had been kidnapped by terrorists in Matazu Local Government Area.
According to reports, the rescue followed a gun battle with fleeing terrorists near Shaiskawa village, which forced the criminals to abandon their captives.
Military officials say the recent operations are part of a broader campaign to rid Nigeria of terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes.
A senior military officer reiterated that the Nigerian Army remains committed to creating a secure environment where farmers, traders, and residents can go about their daily activities safely.
“We are working in line with the Federal Government’s food security agenda. Security is key to economic growth, and we will continue to push until peace is restored,” the officer said.
