The Nigerian Army says its troops have killed terrorists, arrested suspected gunrunners and recovered weapons and stolen livestock in multiple coordinated operations across the country. A source at Army Headquarters said the forces have sustained offensive operations with “remarkable successes.”
According to the source, troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 3, under Operation Fansan Yamma, engaged terrorists at a crossing point near Magami village during a fighting patrol in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Two terrorists were killed in the firefight, and soldiers recovered two AK 47 magazines loaded with 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a belt with 54 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and other items.
Later the same day, at about 3:30 p.m., troops on patrol around Kangiwa in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State confronted another group of terrorists. The criminals fled, leaving behind one AK 47 rifle, a magazine and a motorcycle, while troops continued aggressive patrols to deny them freedom of movement.
In Katsina State, troops of 17 Brigade deployed at Forward Operating Base Malumfashi foiled a livestock rustling attempt between Burdugau and Unguwar Matau villages. After a brief exchange of gunfire, the terrorists escaped, abandoning 51 cows, 63 sheep and one donkey, which were later handed over to the Malumfashi Local Government chairman.
The Army source added that troops of 12 Brigade, working with the Department of State Services, arrested a suspected gunrunner during a joint operation in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State. Initial investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly supplied an AK 47 rifle sourced from Nasarawa State to a criminal in Loko; a mobile phone and keypad were recovered, and the suspect is now in DSS custody.
In a related operation, troops rescued a kidnap victim at Aiyetoro Kiri in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi. The rescue followed the abduction of two civilians in Lokoja on December 19, and the freed victim is receiving treatment at a military medical facility.
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace also repelled an attempted armed robbery at Tenti community in Bokkos area of Plateau State. The suspects escaped, but six residents were injured and taken to hospital, while soldiers have launched a manhunt for the attackers.
In Benue State, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, again working with the DSS, arrested three suspected gunrunners at Igoje in Agatu Local Government Area. The suspects have been handed over to the DSS for further investigation.
The source said the Nigerian Army remains committed to sustaining offensive operations to protect lives, property and national security across all regions.