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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
In its renewed offensive against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the country, soldiers of the Nigerian Army have killed some terrorists and arrested four other suspects.
The operations conducted between July 30 and August 2, 2025, across operational theatre in the country, also led to the rescue of some kidnapped victims, recovery of a cache of arms, ammunition as well as recovery of illicit materials. The Army said that In Borno State, troops of 19 Brigade Garrison, came in contact with ISWAP/JAS terrorists at Kekeno, Kukawa Local Government, leading to heavy gun dwell that compelled the assailants to retreat.
In the course of the pursuit, troops recovered 67 rounds of 7.62mm Special, 81 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm belt links, 21 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition. Others include: hand grenade, an Improvised Explosive Device(IED), planted along the Monguno–Kekeno supply route, which was successfully detonated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team. In Taraba State, the army stated that a joint operation by Sector 3 of Operation WHIRL STROKE and the Department of State Services (DSS) led to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner in Wukari. The operation yielded the recovery of 362 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, one round of 7.62mm NATO, a motorcycle, three mobile phones, and the sum of ₦842,100 in cash.
Furthermore, troops of 63 Brigade Garrison, in conjunction with the Police, rescued three kidnapped victims: two female students and an adult male around Otulu Forest in Oshimili North LGA of Delta State. One kidnapper was neutralised during the mission, while troops recovered one AK-47 magazine loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62mm Special, five mobile phones, four school bags, and the sum ₦3.6 million in cash. The victims were safely evacuated for medical attention.
In another development, troops of 323 Artillery Regiment in Ondo State, arrested a suspected criminal along the Ikare-Ekiti road. The suspect was found in possession of a dane gun, machete, and a black mask. He has been handed over to the police for prosecution.
In Ughelli South LGA of Delta state, troops of 181 Amphibious Battalion, working with Tantita Security Operatives, apprehended a suspected illegal oil bunkerer in possession of three sacks of illegally refined petroleum products. The arrest and materials were processed in line with Operation DELTA SAFE protocol.
These coordinated operations reflect the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity, combating criminality, and restoring peace and stability across the country. The Nigerian Army remains resolute and proactive in ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
