The Nigerian Army has intensified its nationwide counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations, recording significant successes between September 1 and 5, 2025. The operations led to the neutralisation of four terrorists, arrest of 64 criminal suspects, rescue of kidnapped victims, and recovery of weapons, ammunition, and logistics.
In the North East, troops of 117 Task Force Battalion, supported by Civilian Joint Task Force and vigilantes, engaged terrorists at Yimurmuze in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, killing one and seizing an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 24 rounds of ammunition. Similarly, troops of 159 Battalion in Geidam LGA neutralised another terrorist and recovered an AK-47 rifle with two magazines. In Adamawa State, 115 Task Force Battalion apprehended eight suspected cattle rustlers in Askira Uba, recovering a Dane gun, cartridges, knives, bows and arrows, and mobile phones. Troops also discovered improvised explosive devices in New Marte, disrupting planned attacks.
In the North West, airstrikes by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in collaboration with ground troops, destroyed terrorist hideouts at Zango in Katsina State. Intercepted communications confirmed up to 15 terrorists were killed, while others fled with gunshot wounds. In Sokoto State, troops of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion arrested two terrorist informants and logistics suppliers in Gudu LGA.
In the North Central region, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralised an armed herder in Logo LGA, Benue State, recovering an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. In Niger State, soldiers rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered 28 rustled cows during coordinated air and ground operations in Mariga LGA.
Elsewhere across the country, the Army also recorded major breakthroughs. In Kaduna State, 19 suspects were arrested in raid operations across Unguwan Dosa, Rigasa, Mando, and Tudun Wada. In Rivers State, troops uncovered 35 sacks of illegally refined petroleum products, amounting to about 1,750 litres, and arrested a suspect despite stiff resistance from bunkerers. In Delta State, soldiers working alongside the NDLEA apprehended three drug peddlers in Sapele, seizing cocaine, tramadol, and other illicit substances, while in Oshimili South LGA, two suspected IPOB/ESN members linked to improvised explosive device production were arrested.
Operations also extended to Lagos, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory, leading to the arrest of armed robbers, kidnappers, and drug dealers, with recoveries of firearms, ammunition, and narcotics.
The Army said the sustained operations are part of efforts to stabilise communities, dismantle criminal networks, and create an enabling environment for agricultural and socio-economic activities in support of the Federal Government’s drive for food security.