Nigerian troops have killed terrorists, rescued 170+ hostages, and foiled oil theft worth ₦241.2 million in recent nationwide operations, the Defence Headquarters reports.
25th July 2025 12:59 PM 
The Defence Headquarters says troops deployed across various regions have killed several terrorists, rescued over 170 kidnapped victims, and prevented oil theft worth ₦241.2 million during recent operations.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, gave the update in Abuja while briefing reporters on military activities between July 10 and 22. He said troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the North East conducted offensives across Borno and Adamawa States, arresting 13 terrorists and rescuing three kidnapped persons. Nine collaborators were also picked up.
Kangye said that in the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued 106 kidnapped victims in Zamfara, while another 32 — mostly women and children — were released during non-kinetic engagements involving the Office of the National Security Adviser. Six terrorists were arrested, and arms, drugs, motorcycles, and ₦192,300 were recovered.
He noted that in Plateau and Kaduna States, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralised extremists and arrested six suspects. Seventeen kidnapped victims were freed, while a gunrunner caught in Kaduna had 350 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. In Benue, Taraba, and parts of the North Central region, troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE also arrested 11 suspects, including informants and attackers linked to recent violence.
In the South-South, Kangye revealed that troops of Operation DELTA SAFE dismantled 14 illegal refineries and intercepted large quantities of stolen crude and petroleum products. Items recovered included over 230,000 litres of crude oil and several vehicles, boats, and storage facilities. A total of 237 suspects were arrested.
He said the military continues to record gains in the fight against terrorism and oil theft, reaffirming their commitment to restoring peace and national stability. According to him, investigations into various arrests are ongoing.
Kangye added that the Armed Forces remain determined to improve strategies and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their cooperation and called for continued support from stakeholders.
