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Tag: Troops

  • Troops neutralise 3 suspected bandits in Plateau, recover weapons

    Troops neutralise 3 suspected bandits in Plateau, recover weapons

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have neutralised three suspected bandits in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.

    Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of OPSH, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Jos.

    Zhakom, who said that the feat followed an intelligence tip, added that the troops also recovered weapons during the operations.

    “Yesterday , troops of OPSH, acting on credible intelligence, conducted offensive operations at a criminal hideout along the fringes of Pinau community in Wase LGA of Plateau.

    “During the operation, troops made contact with criminal elements terrorising the general area, including Pinau – Gimbi road.

    “During the exchange of fire, troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower and neutralised three of the suspected bandits

    “While others ran away with wounds from gunshots, troops exploited the general area and recovered one AK-47 rifle and one AK-47 magazine,” he said.

    Zhakom said that the troops had commenced a follow-up operation to intercept the fleeing criminals.

  • Troops eliminate terror kingpin Abu Fatima in Borno

    Troops eliminate terror kingpin Abu Fatima in Borno

    The Nigerian Army has confirmed the killing of a notorious terrorists’ commander, Amir Abu Fatima, during a special military operation in the Kukawa axis of northern Borno.

    The confirmation was made in a statement posted on the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Nigerian Army on Friday.

    The operation, which was conducted in the early hours of the day, was executed by Special Forces of 19 Brigade under Sector 3 of Operation Hadin Kai, targeting insurgents hideouts in Lake Chad region.

    A reliable military source also told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the operation was a “precision decapitation strike,” aimed at neutralising Abu Fatima, who had been on the most-wanted list of security agencies due to his role in orchestrating multiple high-profile attacks in the Lake Chad Basin.

    The military source further said that the elite troops infiltrated the terrorists enclave and engaged the fighters in a fierce firefight.

    “Abu Fatima was critically wounded and captured alive but later died from excessive bleeding due to gunshot wounds,” the source added.

    The source further disclosed that his second-in-command, as well as several bomb-makers and foot soldiers, were also neutralised during the operation.

    Items recovered from the terrorists include several AK-47 rifles, loaded magazines, components for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and other military-grade weapons.

    The sources described the success of the operation as a major tactical and psychological blow to terrorists’ networks operating within the region.

  • Troops neutralise 3 suspected bandits, recover weapons in Plateau

    Troops neutralise 3 suspected bandits, recover weapons in Plateau

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have neutralised three suspected bandits in Teng and Kayarda communities of Qua’an Pan Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.

    Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of the operation, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Jos.

    Zhakom said that the troops ambushed the suspected bandits on Tuesday morning, following an intelligence report over planned attacks on some communities in the state.

    He explained that the troops also recovered some weapons during the operation.

    “This morning, some armed militia heading to attack some villages on the Plateau were ambushed and neutralised by troops of OPSH.

    “This followed credible intelligence on plans by bandits to attack Teng and Kayarda villages in Qua’an Pan LGA.

    “During the operation, troops in ambush positions, made contact and neutralised three bandits while others fled in the process.

    “Troops further recovered four AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition from the suspects,” he said.

    The media officer said that troops had intensified efforts to arrest other members of the criminal group who are still at large.

  • Troops neutralise 16 terrorists in Borno

    Troops neutralise 16 terrorists in Borno

    The Nigerian Army says troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have neutralised 16 ISWAP terrorists during a swift and decisive operation in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno.

    The Army disclosed this in a post on its official X handle on Friday.

    It stated that the terrorists were sighted around 1 a.m. on Friday and were immediately engaged with sustained indirect fire.

    “The main thrust of the attack targeted the Brigade, prompting the swift deployment of air support to reinforce ground troops,” the Army said.

    It added that the combined firepower from both ground and air forces overwhelmed the insurgents after about two hours of intense engagement, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

    The Army said “16 terrorists were neutralised during the encounter. A pursuit operation is currently ongoing to track down fleeing elements.”

    The military also confirmed that an ammunition storage area was hit during the exchange but was swiftly brought under control, with no further escalation recorded.

    The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive against all terrorist elements in the North East and restoring lasting peace to the region.

  • Troops kill bandit, recover AK-47 rifle in Taraba

    Troops kill bandit, recover AK-47 rifle in Taraba

    Troops of 6 Brigade, Sector 3 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have neutralised a suspected bandit and recovered a rifle in Taraba.

    This is contained in a statement by Capt. Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations of the Brigade on Wednesday in Jalingo.

    According to him, the troops on patrol came across the suspected bandit along Bandawa – Karim Lamido road.

    “In the brief but fierce encounter, troops gallantly engaged the criminals, neutralizing one of the bandits and successfully recovering one AK-47 rifle and thirty-nine (39) rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

    “This operation is a testament to the Brigade’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring that criminal elements find no safe haven within Taraba State,” he  stated.

    The statement added that the Commander of the Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kingsley Uwa, has intervened in the brewing tensions between locals in Kashimbila of Takum Local Government Area of Taraba and Jato Aka of Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.

    It said that a security meeting was held involving all stakeholders to de-escalate the tension.

    “At the conclusion of the meeting, both communities agreed to embrace peace and shun all forms of violence, pledging to work together for the safety and development of the region.

  • Troops arrest 2 suspected gunrunners, recover arms in Plateau

    Troops arrest 2 suspected gunrunners, recover arms in Plateau

    Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), have arrested two suspected gunrunners and recovered some weapons in Marit-Mazat community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau.

    Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of OPSH, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Jos.

    Zhakom said that this followed an intelligence tip and subsequent operation conducted by troops in the early hours of Sunday.

    “The operation is sequel to the arrest of a gunrunner and kidnapper on May 10, at Barakin Gangare community of Barkin Ladi LGA.

    “During the follow-up operations, troops arrested another notorious gunrunner and kidnapper.

    “Troops also recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and one ITEL phone during the operations,” he said.

    The media officer said that the preliminary investigation revealed that the arrested suspects were responsible for most of the criminal activities along Gashish and Kurra Falls communities of Barkin Ladi.

    He added that the suspects also confessed to be responsible for some of the criminal activities in Gwantu and Fadan Karshe axis in Sanga LGA of Kaduna State.

    Zhakom said that troops had intensified efforts to track and arrest other members of the criminal syndicate and also recover their weapons.

  • Troops halt kidnap attempt, rescue six abductees in Taraba

    Troops halt kidnap attempt, rescue six abductees in Taraba

    Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued victims along the Wukari-Kente road in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

    The operation was carried out by Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke deployed at Forward Operating Base Wukari.

    The incident occurred on 27 April 2025, following a distress call from the Executive Chairman of Wukari Local Government Area regarding an attack on suspected travellers along the Wukari-Kente road.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Captain Olubodunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army.

    “Responding swiftly, the troops launched a prompt rescue operation to the area and rescued the victims unhurt,” the statement read. “Upon arrival at the scene, the troops discovered an abandoned white Toyota Hilux vehicle with a flat tyre by the roadside. Shortly after, six individuals emerged from the nearby bush, unharmed, and identified themselves as the occupants of the vehicle.

    “They revealed that they were en route from Yola to Lafia when armed men, suspected to be kidnappers or armed robbers, launched an attack from the rear of their vehicle, forcing them to flee into the bush for safety.” After securing the area, the troops assisted in fixing the damaged tyre and ensured the travellers continued their journey safely. The Commander 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, commended the troops for their swift response and vigilance, and reassured the public of the Brigade’s unrelenting efforts in maintaining peace and security in Taraba State and its environs.

    Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can aid in tackling criminal activities.

  • Troops nab 49 suspected oil thieves, destroy 22 illegal refining sites – DHQ

    Troops nab 49 suspected oil thieves, destroy 22 illegal refining sites – DHQ

    The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says the troops of Operation Delta Safe, have in the last one week apprehended 49 perpetrators of oil theft and destroyed 22 illegal refining sites.

    The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, made this known in a weekly report of ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, on Friday in Abuja.

    Kangye said the troops had during the week foiled oil theft worth an estimated sum of N869.2m.

    The breakdown, according to him, indicates 325,990 litres of stolen crude oil, 24,645 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and 19,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 1,600 litres of engine oil were recovered.

    “Additionally, troops discovered and destroyed 86 crude oil cooking ovens, 181 dugout pits, 25 boats, a speedboat, 18 storage tanks, 316 drums and 22 illegal refining sites.

    “Other items recovered include generator set, jack, galvanised pipes, pumping machines, drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones and 18 vehicles,” he said.

    Kangye said the military, in collaboration with other security agencies, had continued to demonstrate bravery, discipline, and professionalism in the face of evolving security threats.

    He said the troops neutralised several insurgents, rescued hostages, apprehended suspects, and recovered arms and ammunition during the week.

    “Our operations have continued across various theatres of operations comprising the North East, North West, North Central South-South and other regions where criminals seek to disrupt peace and stability.

    “Troops remain committed to their constitutional responsibility of safeguarding the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Nigeria, as well as ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

    “Between April 3 and April 10, troops recovered huge quantities of assorted arms including various kinds of machine guns, RPG tubes, automatic weapons as well as locally fabricated guns and Improvised Explosive Devices.

    “Additionally, a huge cache of assorted 7.62mm and 9mm ammunition, as well as live cartridges were also recovered,” he said.

  • Troops arrest 2 suspects over killing of Catholic priest

    Troops arrest 2 suspects over killing of Catholic priest

    Troops of the special military taskforce, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), have arrested two suspected killers of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of OPSH, on Wednesday in Jos.

    NAN repots that Okechukwu, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Kafachan, Kaduna State, was abducted on March 4, at about 9:15 p.m.

    Okechukwu, who was  abducted at his residence in Tachira, Kaura Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, was later found dead on March 5.

    Zhakom said that the suspects were arrested on Tuesday, following a raid troops conducted in a settlement at Warsa-Piti community of Lere LGA of the state.

    “The suspects were arrested following a raid on the prime suspect’s hideout located at a Ruga settlement in Warsa-Piti community, Lere LGA of Kaduna State.

    “During preliminary investigation, the prime suspect, a 33-year-old man, confessed to have been contracted by another man, living in the same house with the slain priest to kidnap him.

    “Troops in a follow-up operation arrested the suspect at Agwan Sarki, Tachira in Kaura LGA.

    “The suspects are in custody undergoing further interrogation,”he said.

    The media officer said that investigation were still ongoing to unravel the whereabout of the remaining persons who participated in the henius crime.

  • Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety – Army chief tells troops

    Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety – Army chief tells troops

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has urged Nigerian Army troops to make the country safer and more secure for all citizens.

    He gave this charge while addressing troops during his maiden operational visit to 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Charimaigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, on Sunday.

    Oluyede praised the troops for their efforts and sacrifices in safeguarding national security, defending sovereignty, and protecting Nigeria’s interests.

    He said: “When you consider security challenges in the North-West, North-East, North-Central, and beyond, it’s clear that more needs to be done.

    “Every Nigerian is looking to us for safety. This requires greater commitment, a sense of duty, responsibility, and courage on our part.

    The COAS pledged to prioritise soldiers’ welfare and that of their families, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication to the nation.

    Under his leadership, the Army has increased Ration Cash Allowance (RCA), Instructors’ Allowance, and introduced affordable housing schemes for soldiers post-retirement.

    He also assured troops of regular supply of uniforms, kits, combat gear, improved living and working conditions, and access to soft loans for those in need.

    Soldiers were urged to take advantage of loan and housing schemes to secure their own homes after retiring from service.

    He promised continued efforts, within available resources, to improve conditions for troops and their families across the Army.

    “My philosophy is to do my utmost to enhance welfare for you and your families, and to build a stronger, better-equipped Army.

    “If there’s no security, development cannot happen. It’s our joint responsibility to ensure safety, for Nigeria’s progress and our children’s future.

    “As your leader, I’ll do my best to improve your lives. But you must remain committed to securing Nigeria,” Oluyede said.

    He cautioned troops against extravagant lifestyles and urged them to live within their means and earnings.

    NAN reports that Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, led the COAS on an inspection of ongoing and completed projects in the barracks.

    The COAS also performed ground-breaking for an electrically powered borehole (6,000-litre capacity) and laid foundations for new non-commissioned officers’ residential quarters.

    Oluyede inspected the remodelled and upgraded 12 Brigade Medical Centre during his visit.

    He was accompanied by Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and other senior Nigerian Army officers.