DHQ: Military Airstrikes, Ground Operations Killed over 160 Terrorists in North-west in One Week

Between August 6 and August 12, military forces carried out airstrikes and ground operations in various Nigerian states, resulting in the death of over 160 terrorists. Over 19 individuals, including fighters, women, children, and teenagers, surrendered to the military, citing food shortages, sustained military pressure, and internal factional conflicts as reasons for abandoning terrorist groups.

Troops rescued five female abductees around Amuda Bridge in Gwoza LGA after they escaped from a terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains. In Kebbi State, 18 terrorists were killed during an encounter near Makuku Village. Suspected foreign terrorists with Improvised Explosive Device (IED) expertise were apprehended in Zamfara State.

A logistics facilitator and a suspected collaborator were arrested in Maradun and 5.302 million naira reportedly intended for terrorist associates was recovered. In Kaduna State, a suspected terrorist was arrested with foreign camouflage items, mobile phones, and identification documents, while another logistics supplier was arrested with ammunition and other items.

In Kogi State, troops rescued 16 kidnap victims, including six men, six women, and four children. One local security member was killed, and a police officer sustained injuries during the operation. Nine additional victims were rescued along the Ajaokuta-Itobe Road. In Benue State, one armed herder and three cattle were killed while troops engaged assailants.

In Niger State, troops rescued nine male kidnap victims. In Kwara State, four suspected terrorist collaborators were arrested, and an ambush resulted in the recovery of a rifle, ammunition, and six motorcycles. In the Niger Delta, about 24,000 litres of stolen crude oil and an illegal refining site were recovered. In Enugu State, troops dismantled a kidnap syndicate, neutralising a commander and recovering cash, mobile phones, and herbal medicine.