Military Achieves Strategic Victories: 96 Terrorists Killed, N712 Million Stolen Oil Recovered
By Lawrence Bilal Audu
The Armed Forces of Nigeria has recorded substantial successes in ongoing operations against terrorists and oil thieves, dealing a major blow to their operational capabilities.
According to the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, troops have disrupted terrorist activities across the country, eliminating five top IPOB/ESN leaders and arresting notorious commander Usman Maisaje.
The arrest of Usman Maisaje, a close associate of wanted terrorist leader Kachalla Boka, has yielded valuable intelligence, as he is cooperating with authorities. Additionally, troops arrested 227 individuals, including 45 perpetrators of oil theft, and rescued 157 kidnapped hostages. The military also recovered stolen assets worth N712,065,450.
The recovered items include 71 assorted weapons and 1,463 ammunition. Specifically, troops seized 50 AK47 rifles, 16 fabricated rifles, 5 dane guns, 5 pump action guns, and 5 locally made pistols. Other items recovered include 784 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 403 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, and 164 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammo.
In the Niger Delta region, troops discovered and destroyed four dugout pits, 48 boats, 52 drums, and 38 storage tanks used for illegal oil activities. They also recovered 712,535 litres of stolen crude oil and 76,800 litres of illegally refined AGO. Furthermore, troops seized 55 cooking ovens, two speedboats, one tricycle, six mobile phones, and six vehicles.
The military has reaffirmed its commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities and destroying supporting infrastructure. These successes demonstrate the effectiveness of ongoing operations and underscore the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s dedication to protecting the nation. General Edward Buba, confirmed the military’s resolve to continue disrupting terrorist operations and securing the country.
