By Bavoriat Clara
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded a string of decisive operational victories across the country, including the rescue of 106 kidnapped victims in Zamfara State and the arrest of 237 oil thieves in the South-South, as part of ongoing efforts to neutralize threats and restore peace nationwide.
According to the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, the operations, carried out between 10–24 July 2025 across different theatres, led to the elimination of dozens of terrorists, arrest of scores of criminal elements, and recovery of significant quantities of arms, ammunition, and stolen crude oil.
In the North East under Operation HADIN KAI, troops sustained aggressive kinetic and intelligence-driven operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa States. These operations resulted in the arrest of 13 terrorists, rescue of 3 hostages, and arrest of 9 terrorist collaborators. A large number of terrorists, including women and children, also surrendered to troops as pressure intensified across the region.
In the North West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops stormed terrorist hideouts in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kano, and Niger States. In a landmark breakthrough, 106 kidnapped victims were rescued in Maru LGA of Zamfara State, while 32 others, mostly women and children, were released to the Office of the National Security Adviser following sustained non-kinetic engagements. Six terrorists were arrested, and the notorious terrorist Muhammadu Hamisu alias Mamiyo was apprehended along with weapons, motorcycles, illicit drugs and N192,300.00 in cash.
Operation SAFE HAVEN in the North Central recorded major gains in Plateau and Kaduna States. Troops neutralized several extremists, rescued 17 kidnapped victims, and recovered arms, ammunition, and vehicles. In a raid on 19 July in Sanga LGA of Kaduna, troops arrested a notorious gunrunner, Haruna Abdullahi, in possession of 350 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Similarly, in Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops in Benue and Taraba States neutralized extremists, rescued 9 kidnap victims, and arrested key informants and violent extremist associates in Taraba, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory. Weapons and ammunition were recovered during these operations.
In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE troops foiled massive crude oil theft and illegal refining activities. They recovered 230,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 2,500 litres of PMS. A total of 30 crude oil cooking ovens, 28 dugout pits, 14 illegal refining sites, and various equipment were destroyed. Notably, 237 oil thieves were arrested, and 183 suspected internet fraudsters were also apprehended in Delta State.
In the South East under Operation UDO KA, troops maintained pressure on criminal syndicates, arresting 7 suspected kidnappers and rescuing a child abducted from Taraba State en route to Anambra. Two other victims were freed in Ebonyi, Enugu, and Anambra States.
The Armed Forces reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the protection of lives, property, and territorial integrity. Collaboration with security agencies, traditional institutions, and local communities remains key in achieving lasting peace. The public is urged to continue supporting the military in its patriotic mission to secure the nation.
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