Defence headquarters issues stern warning to bandits and terrorists

The Defence Headquarters has issued a strong warning to terrorists and bandits, signaling their imminent downfall as the military intensifies efforts to combat criminal activities through a series of operations conducted in the past week.

In a statement released in Abuja, Defence spokesman Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba conveyed the military’s determination to thwart the objectives of terrorists, insurgents, and violent extremists. He stated, “The war is on, and their days are numbered, unless they surrender.”

During these operations, significant progress was made, resulting in the elimination of 67 terrorists, the apprehension of 190 individuals involved in criminal activities, and the successful rescue of 47 hostages.

These operations spanned various regions, including the North-West, North-East, and North-Central zones, and had a considerable impact on the terrorists, insurgents, and violent extremists.

The military also achieved substantial success in terms of recovered weaponry and equipment. A total of 112 assorted weapons and 989 pieces of ammunition were confiscated during these operations. This included items such as GT3, AK47 rifles, locally fabricated rifles, pump-action guns, pistols, dane guns, and other firearms.

The ammunition haul included various rounds, cartridges, and magazines. Additionally, troops recovered 23 vehicles, 33 motorcycles, 31 mobile phones, five boafeng radios, four bicycles, as well as tools like cutlasses and axes. A digital camera and N3.2 million in cash were also seized.

Breaking down the operations by region, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba revealed that in the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai were responsible for neutralizing 42 terrorists, capturing 15, and successfully rescuing 10 hostages. Furthermore, they recovered 41 AK47 rifles, two locally fabricated rifles, and a substantial quantity of ammunition, motorcycles, and personal belongings.

In the North-Central region, a joint effort by troops of Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke led to the neutralization of seven terrorists, the apprehension of 23 suspects, and the rescue of 17 hostages. These operations also yielded a considerable cache of arms, ammunition, and motorcycles.

Lastly, in the North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji and Operation Whirl Punch teams managed to neutralize several terrorists, arrest numerous suspects, and rescue hostages, further highlighting the military’s determined effort to combat criminal activities and restore security across various regions.