The Nigerian military has reported significant successes in its ongoing counterterrorism efforts, announcing the neutralization of 133 terrorists in operations conducted across Borno State and the North-Western region. The Defence Headquarters provided this update on Thursday, detailing the activities of troops between January 3 and February 13, 2025.
Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, the Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed that the military had recovered two calibrated aircraft engines from a long-forgotten aircraft crash site in Borno State. In addition, the operation led to the recovery of one double-barrel cannon gun and 16 missiles, further demonstrating the scale of ongoing military action.
The operations also led to the neutralization of 75 terrorists, the arrest of 138 suspects, and the rescue of 46 hostages. Troops have intensified efforts to crack down on oil theft, making significant progress in the Niger Delta region. The military seized over N646 million worth of stolen petroleum products, destroyed illegal refining sites, and arrested dozens of suspects involved in oil theft.
In the North-West, the military conducted several offensive operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, leading to the neutralization of 58 terrorists and the rescue of 16 kidnapped victims. Notably, a notorious terrorist leader, Kachalla Mudi, surrendered with his associates, handing over multiple firearms. In multiple regions, security forces dismantled insurgent networks, neutralized key terrorist leaders, and recovered a substantial number of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment.
During operations in Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto states, troops successfully engaged terrorists in gunfights, killing several insurgents and rescuing victims. Intelligence-led operations also led to the arrest of high-profile terrorist leaders, who were found in possession of cash and firearms.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring security and stability in the region, urging citizens to collaborate with security forces by providing vital intelligence to aid counterterrorism efforts.
The Nigerian military continues to intensify operations as part of its overarching strategy to eliminate insurgents and restore peace to affected regions.
