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Saturday, July 18, 2026

Military Intensifies Offensive, Rescues Over 40 Victims and Arrests Terror Suspects Nationwide

Nigerian soldiers patrol a roadway beside an armored military vehicle during a counter-terrorism operation, with the Nigerian Military logo displayed.
   Premium News Naija


The Nigerian Armed Forces have intensified their nationwide offensive against terrorism, kidnapping, and organised crime, recording fresh successes that include the rescue of more than 40 kidnapped victims and the arrest of over 20 suspected terrorists and their collaborators within a week.

According to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), the achievements were recorded during coordinated military operations conducted across various theatres of operation between July 10 and July 16. The operations also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition, vehicles, and equipment used by criminal groups, reinforcing the military's commitment to tackling insecurity nationwide. 

Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the latest operational gains reflected the Armed Forces' determination to dismantle terrorist cells, rescue innocent citizens, and restore peace across affected communities.

Coordinated Operations Across Nigeria

The military said the successes were achieved through coordinated operations under Operation Hadin Kai, Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Savannah Shield, Operation Enduring Peace, Operation Whirl Stroke, Operation Delta Safe, and Operation UDO KA.

Working alongside other security agencies and local vigilante groups, troops carried out intelligence-driven raids, ambushes, clearance patrols, and rescue missions targeting terrorists, armed bandits, kidnappers, oil thieves, and other criminal elements.

Fresh Gains Against Terrorists in the North-East

In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, neutralising several terrorists during combat operations.

The military disclosed that six suspected terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators were arrested, while thirteen kidnapped victims regained their freedom.

Authorities also confirmed that ten family members linked to terrorist groups voluntarily surrendered to troops, while security personnel foiled infiltration attempts around Maiduguri and arrested a suspected foreign spy in Mallam Fatori, Borno State. 

North-West Operations Rescue More Victims

Military operations under Operation Fansan Yamma also produced encouraging results across Zamfara and Kebbi states.

According to the Defence Headquarters, troops rescued fourteen kidnapped victims, neutralised several armed criminals, arrested suspected collaborators, and recovered vehicles abandoned by fleeing terrorists.

Troops also repelled attacks on vulnerable communities while maintaining sustained offensives against bandit camps across the region.

Security Successes in North-Central

Troops deployed under Operation Savannah Shield and Operation Enduring Peace continued security operations across North-Central Nigeria.

Military authorities said four kidnapped victims were rescued in Niger and Kwara states, while forest guards recovered weapons after neutralising a suspected terrorist.

Additional operations in Kaduna and Plateau states resulted in the arrest of suspected arms traffickers, wanted criminals, and the rescue of more abducted victims following the disruption of attacks along major highways.

Major Rescue in Kogi and Nasarawa

Operation Whirl Stroke recorded another breakthrough after troops intercepted an ammunition courier transporting rounds of ammunition in Nasarawa State.

Four suspected terrorist collaborators were also arrested in Kogi State.

The military further confirmed the rescue of a school principal, a NECO official, and two students abducted during an attack on an examination centre in Dekina Local Government Area after security pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives. 

Crackdown on Oil Theft Intensifies

Troops of Operation Delta Safe sustained efforts against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta.

Illegal refining sites were dismantled, stolen petroleum products recovered, and equipment used for economic sabotage destroyed during the operations.

In Edo State, security personnel also neutralised suspected kidnappers, recovered firearms and ammunition, and rescued additional kidnap victims.

Operations Continue in the South-East

Under Operation UDO KA, troops arrested suspected members of a proscribed separatist group while recovering weapons and ammunition.

Security forces also rescued two kidnapped victims along the Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway during separate intelligence-led operations.

The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations until criminal groups are dismantled across the region.

DHQ Commends Troops

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended officers and soldiers for their professionalism and resilience in ongoing operations nationwide.

He also praised improved collaboration among security agencies and local communities, noting that timely intelligence continues to play a critical role in successful military operations.

The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible information capable of preventing attacks and exposing criminal hideouts.

Conclusion

The latest operational report highlights the Nigerian military's sustained efforts to combat terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and organised crime across the country. While security challenges remain, the rescue of more than 40 abductees and the arrest of over 20 suspected terrorists within one week demonstrate the continued determination of the Armed Forces to improve national security and protect lives. 

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