By Peter Jatau– Abuja
In a strong demonstration of its unwavering commitment to national security and territorial integrity, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has continued to execute strategic military operations across various theatres, achieving significant victories in the fight against terrorism, oil theft, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. This was revealed in the latest weekly operational update covering the period ending June 13, 2025, released by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye.
Nationwide Security Drive: A Unified Mission
According to Major General Kangye, the operations—conducted under multiple joint task forces—underscore the military’s resolve to safeguard lives and property, uphold the rule of law, and foster peace across Nigeria. He emphasized that the Armed Forces remain committed to transparency and citizen engagement, as they seek to build a more secure and stable nation through both kinetic and non-kinetic means.
Operation HADIN KAI (North-East): Surrenders and Counter-Offensives
In the North-East theatre, troops under Operation HADIN KAI made significant headway:
- Terrorist Surrenders: Between June 6 and 11, numerous members of ISWAP and Boko Haram (JAS faction), including adult males, women, and children, surrendered as military pressure intensified.
- Offensives in Borno and Yobe: Joint operations in Gwoza, Ngala, Marte, Bade, and Gujba LGAs resulted in several terrorist deaths, the rescue of three kidnapped victims, and the seizure of arms, IED materials, and vehicles. Terrorists’ camps were also destroyed.
- Arrests and Seizures: Five terrorist collaborators and a Chinese national were arrested in Borno and Yobe States, with mobile phones, international passports, a vehicle, and ₦10,000 recovered.
- Terrorist Activities Thwarted: In Gwoza, Abadam, and Nangere LGAs, troops killed insurgents, rescued more captives, and dismantled terror infrastructures.
Operation FASAN YAMMA (North-West): Decisive Engagements
In the volatile North-West:
- Combat Patrols: Between June 6 and 11, troops confronted terrorists in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States, killing several and rescuing two hostages. Assorted weapons and motorcycles were recovered.
- Rapid Response: Security forces responded to threats in Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Kebbi States, neutralizing terrorists and rescuing four additional kidnapped victims.
Operation SAFE HAVEN (North-Central): Cattle Rustlers and Criminal Gangs Crushed
- Plateau and Kaduna Offensives: In Riyom, Bassa, and Zangon Kataf LGAs, troops killed extremists, arrested three suspects, and rescued a kidnapped victim.
- Criminal Arrests: A suspected cattle rustler was apprehended in Riyom, while troops foiled several kidnapping plots in Mangu, Jos, and Bokkos, rescuing four victims and seizing arms, livestock, and motorcycles.
Operation WHIRL STROKE (North-Central): Intelligence-Led Raids
- Criminal Hideouts Hit: Offensive maneuvers in Nasarawa, Benue, and Taraba States saw the neutralization of one extremist and arrest of multiple suspects. Recovered items included rifles, ammunition, and mobile phones.
- Anti-Kidnapping Success: Operations in Kwara and Benue States led to the arrest of two criminals and the rescue of one victim.
Operation DELTA SAFE (South-South): Oil Theft Busted
In the oil-rich Niger Delta:
- Illegal Refinery Clamped Down: Troops destroyed 21 refining sites, seizing 121,035 litres of stolen crude oil, 19,650 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO), and 7,140 litres of kerosene (DPK). Equipment such as cooking ovens, storage tanks, and boats were also destroyed.
- Arrests and Recovery: 23 suspects were arrested and weapons, vehicles, motorcycles, and communication devices were confiscated.
- Anti-Kidnap Measures: In Okigwe and Aniocha LGAs, troops arrested two criminals and rescued a kidnapped victim.
- Additional Arrests: Nine vandals were nabbed in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta States.
Operation UDO KA (South-East): Extremists Cornered
- Engagement in Ebonyi and Anambra: Between June 8 and 10, troops neutralized one extremist and arrested two others. Weapons and a vehicle were recovered.
- Arrests in Abia and Anambra: Eight suspected extremists were arrested, with recovery of weapons, a stolen vehicle, and a laptop.
CLOSING REMARKS: A Nation’s Heroes Remain Vigilant
Major General Kangye praised the troops for their bravery, resilience, and professionalism, noting that the success of the military operations would not be possible without the cooperation of citizens. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and supportive of security efforts.
“We thank all Nigerians for their unwavering support and reiterate our dedication to ensuring peace and prosperity in every part of the country. We will continue to communicate openly and uphold the highest standards of service and professionalism,” he concluded.
Contact the Defence Headquarters
For more updates, follow the Directorate of Defence Media Operations via official platforms. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest military or security outfit.
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