Update From DHQ:Troops Eliminates 6,880 Terrorists In 2023.

 

Frrom Helen Udoh, Outlook Media ABUJA.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ)said that, it’s troops  eliminated about 6,880 terrorists . Another 6,970 bandits arrested from January to December 2023 in Nigeria.

The Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba revealed this while briefing newsmen on ongoing military  Activities by the Armed Forces of Nigeria from january – December 2023  on friday in Abuja.

According to him”The security situation in the North East Zone remains relatively stable with the predominant security challenge being Boko Haram Terrorists/Islamic State West African Province terrorism. Despite the terrorists being substantially degraded by the military in conjunction with sister Services and security agencies, the terrorists have continued to conduct isolated attacks on civilian and military targets and also resorted to planting Improvised Explosive Devices to impede troop’s movement. Nevertheless, the military will not rest on its oars, but will continue to review Tactics, Techniques and Procedures to counter the terrorists.

• In the first half of 2023, troops consolidated on successes gained in 2022, by dominating the Joint Operations Area. During the period, Operation DESERT SANITY and Operation LAKE SANITY II, as well as Operation MOUNTAIN SANITY were conducted with the aim to further degrade the terrorists in their enclaves in SAMBISA Forest, TIMBUKTU Triangle, MANDARA Mountains and the Lake Chad Tumbus.
• These operations resulted in the neutralization of terrorist, the destruction of their camps as well as the capture of several vehicles, arms and ammunitions. Additionally, many hostages were rescued, while the freedom of action of the terrorist was curtailed. The terrorists fighting capability was degraded compelling them to surrender in droves.
• In the second half of the year, troops’ doggedness reduced terrorist activities to ambushes against troops and the increased employment of Improvised Explosive Devices.  Thus, troops embarked on dismounted operations and farm protection patrols to clear proximate terrorists’ enclaves.
• Though the terrorist embarked on disruptive attacks. Troops decimated their fighting force to revived commercial activities, as well as the return of local authorities and Internally Displaced Persons to some localities. This has translated to increase in farming activities in several Local Government Areas.
• Their fighting capacity of the terrorist is at low levels owing to ongoing military pressure by troops. Cumulatively, a total of 105,510 fighters and their family members surrendered to troops while 9 Chibok girls were rescued in different locations across the Theatre.
• Troops witnessed an evolving adoption of Improvised Explosive Device tactics by the terrorists. To this end, a total of 151 Improvised Explosive Device occurrences were recorded in the North East within the year. Among these incidences 30 were on own troops and 43 on civilians. Troops detonated 78 Improvised Explosive Devices. Accordingly , there has been a remarkable improvement in the troop’s ability to defeat and destroy Improvised Explosive Devices planted by the terrorists which has reduced the fatalities on own troops.
• Overall, during the course of the year, troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralized 1,759, recovered 681 assorted weapons and 495,336 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 826 hostages among others

NORTH WEST GEO-POLITICAL ZONE

9. The North-West Zone of the country witnessed threats from armed banditry, terrorists, kidnapping, and illegal levies due to large ungoverned spaces, forest reserves, and hills. Troops observed that the terrorists took advantage of the porosity of northern border and remoteness of the North-West flashpoints that allowed them to operate.
10. Accordingly, the operational effectiveness of the North-West Theatre was reviewed and strengthened in the first half of 2023, with the deployment of additional formations, units, and Forward Operating Bases to boost manpower and seal gaps between deployments. Also, additional force multipliers and enablers such as Mine Resistance Ambush Protected vehicles, and other high-calibre weapons were injected to boost troops fighting power. 
11. Troops recorded successes based on the operational review. The terrorists then leveraged on their fluidity and knowledge of the terrain to operate. The situation caused the terrorist to switch tactics, thereby resorting to mass abduction of villagers and students to generate funds to continue their acts of terror.
12. It will be recalled that on 22 Sep 23, bandits abducted 24 students of Federal University, GUSAU in ZAMFARA State out of which 14 were rescued by troops. Troops then coordinated with school authorities across the zone to forge ways to ensure the safety of their students. Ever since, troops have been working assiduously to ensure safety of schools.
13. Furthermore, troops observed that, the attacks and abductions of some persons in some isolated communities and towns by terrorist in the North-West zone could trigger an influx of Internally Displaced Persons to perceived safe areas with attendant humanitarian challenges. Troops also observed that the efforts by the terrorist to disrupt farming activities as well as imposition of levies on some villages before the farmers can access their farms, could result in food insecurity which would negatively impact socio-economic activities in the areas. Accordingly, troops emplaced contingencies towards supporting humanitarian relief operations and curb any insecurity as a result of the situation. 
14. Overall, during the course of the year, troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI neutralized 1,522, recovered 426 assorted weapons and 6,900 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 1,101 hostages among others. While, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 977, recovered 198 assorted weapons and 1,666 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 571 hostages among others.

NORTH CENTRAL GEO-POLITICAL ZONE

15. The North Central Zone faced several security threats with the most prominent being armed banditry/terrorism characterized by cattle rustling and kidnapping. Notably, there were noticeable footprints of terrorist activities in the zone particularly in Kogi and Niger States while farmers-herders clashes were prevalent in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa and Kwara States. 
16. The North Central region also experienced arms proliferation which served as the propellant for other criminal activities as a result of the ease of access to these arms stemming from the preponderance of illegal arms fabrication factories in Plateau and Kaduna States.
17. Troops observed that, numerous arms merchants operated, particularly from Benue, Plateau and Nasarawa States, supplying arms and ammunition to armed groups in their enclaves across the North-Central zone. These actions impacted the threat dynamics and disrupted troop’s efforts in making the security situation appreciable.
18. Nevertheless, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN and Operation WHIRL STROKE continued to dominate the zone with the right posture to defeat the threats.
19. In the first half of 2023, significant armed banditry and terrorist activities occurred in some Local Government Areas of Niger State, particularly in isolated communities and highways. The presence of potential hideouts and the constant relocation of armed bandits within the zone contributed to increased armed criminal activities.
20. Equally, ethnic-based crises occasioned by persistent violent attacks and kidnappings were recorded in Plateau State. The ethno-religious volatility in the state defined the threat perception which is branded with cyclic violence between the locals and those of Hausa/Fulani extraction. The situation is prevalent in Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Bassa, Riyom and Mangu LGAs.
21. Meanwhile, a significant feat was achieved through robust operational activities to stem the tide of the terrorists operating at the borders between Taraba, Plateau and adjoining areas in Bauchi State and parts of Southern Kaduna. Troops, non-kinetic efforts facilitated several peace initiatives between farmers and herders as well as indigenes and settlers.  The relentless efforts of troops in conjunction with other agencies checkmated illegal arms proliferation as many factories were dismantled and fabricators arrested.
22. Until the recent killings n the Plateau during the Christmas, the highlighted measures visibly contributed to the relative peace in Plateau State, as well as the adjoining areas in Bauchi, Taraba and Kaduna States. Similarly, the activities of Operation WHIRL STROKE significantly checkmated armed banditry, kidnapping and other crimes in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States.
23. The operations resulted in the arrest of several gunrunners, kidnappers, militiamen and other criminals as well as the recovery of caches of arms and ammunition. Unfortunately, it was discovered that some unscrupulous elements amongst troops were part of the illegal arms trading syndicates. While some have been arrested and adequately sanctioned, efforts are ongoing to rid the armed forces of other bad eggs.
24. The second half of the year witnessed conduct of kinetic and non-kinetic operations which significantly curtailed attacks between farmers and herders in Plateau State. Sadly, events turned gloomy with the attack on Bokkos LGA and some part of Barkin Ladi LGA on 23 December 2023. It should be noted that, Bokkos and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau State span about 2,315 Square Kilometres with over 350 villages, mostly dispersed.
25. The distance between some of these villages and troops’ locations is over 90 kilometres and sometimes difficult to access because of the rugged terrain which are mostly inaccessible to vehicles. Thus, affecting the reaction time to incidents, except when there is credible intelligence before the attack.
26. On the night of 23 December 2023, over 100 Marauding armed militants herders suspected to be mercenaries carried out a series of unprovoked attacks from multiple fronts on Kambarpeli village in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State while the locals were asleep. The militants unleashed mayhem on the villagers before arrival of troops to the location.
27. Similarly, on 24 December 2023, at about 1900 hrs, troops received a total of 36 distress calls from diverse locations simultaneously. The distress calls reported a series of coordinated attacks by armed militant herders on isolated villages in Bokkos and part of Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau State. Troops responded to the calls and were able to intervene in 19 villages forcing the militants to withdraw. Unfortunately, the havoc had been committed before troops arrived the other villages.
28. Overall, during the course of the year, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized 2,094, recovered 664 assorted weapons and 7,357 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 630 hostages among others.
29. Likewise, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized 874, recovered 300 assorted weapons and 1,731 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 533 hostages among others.

SOUTH WEST GEO-POLITICAL ZONE

30. The South West Geo-political Zone has remained largely calm. Within the year, the zone has witnessed cases of armed robbery, illegal arms trafficking, kidnappings and farmers-herders clashes. It also witnessed violent protests orchestrated by the Central Bank of Nigeria Naira Redesign Policy and fuel scarcity. Illegal oil bunkering was also a challenge, particularly in Ikorodu, Atlas Cove, Badagry and Ogere.
31. Additionally, troops deployed to address reports of the migration of terrorists from the North East and North West into the South West Zone, particularly to OSUN State. Accordingly, troops sustained operations in the Old Oyo National Park and KAINJI Lake National Park to curb the influx of terrorist from Kogi and Niger States.
32. Cybercrimes and drug peddling contributed to the threat picture in the SW Zone. However, the armed forces through joint efforts with other agencies, local authorities and increased public cooperation in sharing vital information, significantly doused these criminal activities in the zone. Meanwhile, the conduct of Operations AWATSE and MESA significantly stabilized the SW region. 

SOUTH EAST GEO-POLITICAL ZONE

33. The predominant security threats in the South East Zone remains the nefarious activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra Eastern Security Network, which has increased its employment of Improvised Explosive Devices, known as “OGBUNIGWE”. The secessionists carry out attacks on civilians and security personnel as well as impose illegal sit-at-home orders. 
34. Furthermore, they preyed on lightly manned checkpoints and outposts to kill security personnel and cart away weapons for their terror activities. Troops unlocked the strategy of the group which led to the injection of additional manpower, military platforms and combat equipment in the area.
35. Accordingly, troops operstions largely curtail the activities of the extremist group through a series of intelligence-based operations to dislocate their influential organizers and fighters. This stance has forced the extremist to relocate to the hinterlands to evade the troops’ onslaught. 
36. In the second half of the year, the activities of the group took on another dimension with the employment of surveillance cameras along the routes to their camps and increased employment of Improvised Explosive Devices. The violent extremist then embarked on apropaganda antics to sway gullible citizens for relevance. Notwithstanding, troops are on their trail and gaining the cooperation of stakeholders.
37. Overall, during the course of the year, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralized 464, recovered 684 assorted weapons and 5,825 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 518 hostages among others.

SOUTH SOUTH GEO-POLITICAL ZONE

• The security situation in the South-South Zone has remained fluid and characterized by cultism, kidnapping, youth restiveness and robbery. The militancy in the South-South zone has mutated into pipeline vandalism and oil theft. 
• Notably, oil theft in the region continues to afford criminals the resources to fund their operations whilst constituting huge economic losses to the nation.  Relatedly, pipeline vandalism has continued to pose environmental hazards which are affecting the socioeconomic settings of the area.
• Similarly, there are attempts by Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network to extend its reach into the region with the hope of extending dominance and relevance. Consequently, the re-invigorated Joint Task Force (South-South) Operation DELTA SAFE has stepped up offensives to clamp down on illegal oil bunkering and its associated criminal activities.
• The second half of 2023 witnessed a noticeable decrease in illegal bunkering activities, which was attested to and commended by the NNPC senior management team. Furthermore, the operationalization of Forward Operating Bases SOBE and BIASE in Edo and Cross Rivers States helped to check criminal activities in the area.
• Overall, during the course of the year, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE neutralized 874 suspected oil theft, recovered 300 assorted weapons and 1,731 assorted ammunition. Troops also rescued 533 hostages among others.

REPORT ON ANNUAL REVIEW OF JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES FROM JANUARY – DECEMBER 2023

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST)

1. Details as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
65
86
74
103
83
77
75
215
296
223
254
276
1,759

2.
Surrendered BHT/Families
763
596
831
783
702
1,528
2,347
685
764
423
634
959
11,015

3.
Arrested Terrorists
102
68
45
101
56
95
103
78
76
96
57
76
953

4.
Rescued Hostages
66
55
106
34
23
20
97
101
75
88
67
94
826

5.
Recovered Weapons
98
43
25
52
45
41
69
59
89
59
34
67
681

6.
Recovered Ammunition
1,230
984
653
1,043
567
672
390
133
254
3,457
485
953
10,821

7.
Equipment Recovered
94
56
43
95

45

74
45
36
74
104
73
739

8.
Livestock Recovered
465

32

74

–
155
3
321
105
653
251
2,059

SUMMARY

2. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North East, Operation HADIN KAI in year 2023 are 1,759 terrorist neutralized, 953 arrested suspects, 826 rescued hostages and 11,015 surrendered BH/ISWAP terrorists fighters and their families. The following were recovered 259 AK47 rifles, 9 FN rifles, 681 assorted arms, 7,097 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 5,773 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 495,336 assorted ammunitions and 2,059 livestock.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST)

11. Details are as follows;

Serial
Op Activity
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
101
98
76
68
96
82
161
148
203
144
139
206
1,522

2.
Arrested Terrorists
56
78
34
97
43
31
51
34
67
50
55
49
645

3.
Rescued Hostages
98
56
106
98
67
64
216
79
100
74
56
87
1,101

4.
Weapon Recovered
45
30
34
23
65
25
23
51
70
18
23
19
426

5.
Ammunition Recovered
986
1,022
654
234
698
664
177
85
104
734
975
567
6,900

6.
Equipment Recovered
35
23
45
24
18
65
51
44
43
34
26
39
447

7.
Livestock Recovered
563
230
354
276
1,107
1,256
414
27
56
130
107
564
5,084

SUMMARY

12. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North West Operation HADARIN DAJI in year 2023 are 1,522 terrorist neutralized, 645 arrested suspects and 1,101 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 53 AK47 rifles, 426 assorted arms, 2,342 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6,900 assorted ammunitions and 5,084 livestock.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL)

4. Details are as follows:
   Serial
   Op Activity
   Jan
   Feb
   Mar
   Apr
   May
   Jun
   Jul
   Aug
   Sep
   Oct
   Nov
   Dec
   Total
   Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
34
23
42
52
48
69
189
182
316
382
380
377
2,094

2.
Arrested Suspects
74
230
132
198
76
62
160
255
244
345
310
230
2,316

3.
Rescued Hostages
43
53
34
42
53
40
78
62
45
56
31
96
630

4.
Weapons Recovered
98
47
85
32
23
15
28
39
86
46
76
89
664

5.
Ammunitions Recovered
650
450
670
1,323
960
190
480
90
103
987
564
890
7,357

6.
Livestock Recovered
450
104
76
102
653
751
646
325
336
327
723
241
4,734

SUMMARY

5. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North Central Operation SAFE HAVEN in year 2023 are 2,094
   terrorists neutralized, 2,316 arrested suspects and 630 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 78 AK47 rifles, 666 assorted arms, 4,772 rounds of 7.62mm special, 7357 assorted ammunitions and 4,734 livestock.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE (NORTH CENTRAL)

7. Details are as follows:
   Serial
   Op Activity
   Jan
   Feb
   Mar
   Apr
   May
   Jun
   Jul
   Aug
   Sep
   Oct
   Nov
   Dec
   Total
   Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
45
43
63
56
42
31
109
134
119
143
135
177
977

2.
Arrested terrorists
96
76
67
54
87
56

48

56
96
34
52
722

3.
Rescued Hostages
18
22
17
43
34
28
34
26
77
63
95
114
571

4.
Weapons Recovered
23
9
14
27
19
11
5
21
6
15
19
29
198

5.
Ammunition recovered
87
103
67
234

543

–
68
56
98
321
89
1,666

6.
Equipment Recovered
10
34
11
17
21
15
30
82
45
32
26
15
338

SUMMARY

Some of the features recorded by troops in the North Central Operation WHIRL STROKE in year 2023 are 977 terrorists neutralized, 722 arrested suspects and 571 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 45 AK47 rifles, 198 assorted arms, 952 rounds of 7.62mm special, 1,666 assorted ammunitions and 338 livestock.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION WHIRL PUNCH (NORTH WEST)

11. Details are as follows;

Serial
Op Activity
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
23
32
16
17
34
11
119
127
112
159
174
168
992

2.
Arrested Terrorists
34
32
67
24
11
15
19
32
29
30
27
25
345

3.
Rescued Hostages
39
46
36
22
33
45
37
56
49
74
49
52
538

4.
Weapon Recovered
65
22
46
15
11
32
17
26
29
36
28
19
346

5.
Ammunition Recovered
195
67
332
56
100
385
375
56
2,000
205
271
1,085
5,127

6.
Equipment Recovered
7
12
32
27
9
56
45
31
21
26
51
31
348

7.

Livestock Recovered

23

276
271

105

–
34
67
19
35
830

SUMMARY

12. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North West Operation WHIRL PUNCH in year 2023 are 992 terrorist neutralized, 345arrested suspects and 538 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 34 AK47 rifles, 346 assorted arms, 4,792 rounds of 7.62mm special, 5,127 assorted ammunitions and 830 livestock.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION DELTA SAFE (SOUTH SOUTH)

15. Details as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
20
18
23
16
10
25
41
53
55
58
60
69
448

2.
Arrested Terrorists
103
122
110
71
77
22
85
84
54
164
128
70
1,090

3.
Rescued Hostages
7
13
22
9
17
14
32
36
51
48
32
28
309

4.
Weapons recovered
50
72
18
14
28
15
34
32
22
12
10
14
321

5.
Boats destroyed
76
80
61
66
98
66
84
99
118
131
103
34
1,016

6.
Barges/vessels destroyed

3

–
1
2

2

1
3
1
2
1
16

8.
Illegal refining sites
86
102
141
119
149
119
121
86
78
126
120
127
1,374

9.
Vehicles
25
22
29
39
30
29
22
20
22
38
38
20
334

SUMMARY

16. Some of the features recorded by troops in the South South Operation DELTA SAFE in year 2023 are 448 terrorist neutralized, 1,090 oil thefts and other suspected criminals and 309 rescued hostages. Also, oil theft were denied 100,316,600 litres of crude oil, 60,339,426 litres of AGO, 3,465,450 litres of DPK and 3,544,990 litres of PMS. Additionally, troops recovered 321 assorted weapons and destroyed 1,016 wooden boats, 16 barges/vessels and 1,374 illegal refining sites.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION UDO KA (SOUTH EAST)

18. Details are as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(l)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
22
14
36
27
24
23
52
45
56
50
53
62
464

2.
Arrested Terrorists
74
96
166
71
57
76
77
12
73
102
56
47
907

3.
Rescued Hostages
28
34
37
31
24
36
61
43
48
56
66
54
518

4.
Weapons Recovered
104
95
102
99
60
19
24
20
28
59
28
46
684

5.
Ammunitions Recovered
166
1,140
130
3,380
141
189
60
71
100
246
68
134
5,825

6.
Equipment Recovered
54
71
48
44
31
30
78
58
33
86
41
56
630

SUMMARY

19. Some of the features recorded by troops in the South East Operation UDO KA in year 2023 are 464 terrorists
    neutralized, 907 arrested suspects and 518 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 65 AK47 rifles, 150 pump action guns, 53 dane guns, 85 pistols, 684 assorted arms, 1,082 rounds of 7.62mm special, 4,371 live cartridges, 5,825 assorted ammunitions and 630 other equipment.

EDWARD BUBA
Major General
Director Defence Media Operations

Other News :

REPORT ON ONGOING MILITARY OPERATIONS BY THE ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA AS AT 29 DECEMBER 2023

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST)

1. Troops of Operation HADIN KAI repel a surprise by the ISWAP/JAS terrorists in MMC of Borno State. Troops ambushed BH/ISWAP terrorists in Askira-Uba and Konduga LGAs of Borno State. Troops arrested ISWAP/JAS terrorists collaborator and informant in Jere, Gubio and MMC of BornomStatr.
2. Troops also conducted fighting, discovered and detonated IED in Ngala and Gwoza LGAs of Borno State.
3. Details as follows:

a. Surrender of BH/ISWAP Terrorists. Between 20 and 26 December 23, a total of 238 BH/ISWAP terrorists fighters and their families members comprising 8 adult males 96 adult females and 134 children surrendered to troops within the theatre of operations.
b. ISWAP/JAS Terrorists Attack on Troops. On 20 December 2023, ISWAP/JAS terrorists conducted surprise attack on troops in MMC of BORNO State. Following a firefight, troops neutralized one terrorist while other retreated. Troops recovered one hand grenade, one fabricated hand grenade, 2 AK47 rifle magazines and 18 rounds of locally fabricated 7.62mm Special ammo, one magazine carrier/jacket and one mob phone amongst others.
c. Ambush on BH/ISWAP Terrorists. Between 20 and 22 December 2023, troops in a separate operations ambushed ambushed BH/ISWAP terrorists and made contact with terrorists in Askira-Uba and Konduga LGAs of Borno State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 5 terrorists while others fled. Troops also recovered 2 AK47 rifles with 11 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammo, IED making materials, 2 motorcycles and bicycles amongst others.
d. Fighting Patrol. On 21 December 2023, troops with hybrid forces conducted fighting patrol to suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists enclaves in Ngala LGA of Borno State. Troops made no contact with terrorists. Troops exploited the general area and rescued 6 kidnapped hostages including children.
l. Arrest of ISWAP/JAS Terrorists Collaborators/Informant. On 25 December 2023, troops while on fighting patrols arrested 8 suspected ISWAP/JAS terrorists collaborators including one informant in Jere, Gubio LGA and MMC LGAs of Borno State and arrested 7 suspects. Troops recovered 6 mobile phones, and the sum of Seventy Eight Thousand Four Hundred and Twenty Naira (₦78,420.00) only.
n. Discovery and Detonation of IED. On 26 December 2023, troops while scanning and picketing fighting patrol route discovered an IED planted by ISWAP/JAS terrorists in Gwoza LGA of Borno State. Troops EOD team successfully detonate the IED.

SUMMARY

4. Overall, troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralized 6 terrorists, arrested 15 and rescued 6 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 2 AK47 rifles, one hand grenade, one locally fabricated hand grenade, 11 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 18 rounds of locally fabricated 7.62mm Special ammo, 2 magazines, 7 mobile phones and the sum of N78,420.00.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL)

5. Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN responded to assault in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State. Troops recovered ammo in Zango Kataf and Kaura LGAs of Kaduna State. Troops also arrested suspected kidnappers collaborator in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State.
6. Details are as follows: 

(1) Assaults. On 24 December 2023, troops responded to a reprisal attack and destruction of houses Bokkos LGA of Platuea State. During the operation, troops arrested 4 suspects and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 4 fabricated rifles, 19 rounds and 5 empty cases of 7.62 mm Special ammo, 8 cartridges, 2 knives and 2 mobile phones amongst others.
(2) Recovery of Ammo. Between 20 and 25 December 2023, troops on stop and search operation in a separate operations intercepted a suspected vehicles in Zango Kataf and Kaura LGAs of Kaduna State. During the operations, troops recovered 188 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.
(6) Arrest of Suspected Kidnappers’ Collaborator. On 22 December 2023, following a tip off, troops arrested one suspect for aiding and abetting kidnappers in Barking Ladi LGA of Plateau State.

SUMMARY

8. Overall, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN arrested 13 suspects and rescued 5 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 4 locally fabricated rifles, 423 rounds of 7.62mm special, 5 empty case of 7.62mm Special, 8 cartridges and 2 mobile amongst other items.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE (NORTH CENTRAL)

9. Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested a suspected kidnapper in Doma LGA of Nasarawa State. Troops responded restored normaly Ovia North East LGA of Edo State. Troops arrested suspected violent extremist/insurgent in Ukum LGA of Benue State. Troops also arrested suspected gunrunner in Awe LGA of Nasarawa State.
10. Additionally, troops conducted fighting patrols in Giwa and Chikun LGAs of Kaduna State as well as Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State respectively.
11. Details are as follows: 

a. Arrest of Suspected Kidnapper. On 21 December 2023 fol INTREP, troops with hybrid forces arrested one suspected kidnapper in Doma LGA of Nasarawa State. Prelim Investigation discovered that the suspect was an accomplice in the kidnap of a victim identified as Mr Ogbotu Obadiah earlier on 13 December 2023.
b. Communal Clash. On 23 December 2023, troop responded to information on communal clash in Ovia North East LGA of Edo State. On arrival, troops discovered 2 houses damaged and one burnt. Troops restored normalcy and one live round, empty case of 7.62mm Special ammo and 33 empty cases of cartridges.
c. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremist/Insurgent Informant. On 24 December 2023, troops arrested a suspected violent extremist/insurgent informant in Ukum LGA of Benue State. The suspect was arrested along with a girlfriend to one of their leader identified as Wananyam Chegben.
d. Arrest of Suspected Gunrunner. On 25 December 2023, following a tip off, troops while on patrol arrested one suspected gunrunner in Awe LGA of Nasarawa State. Preliminary investigation revealed that suspect had delivered a total of 2,900 rounds of unspecified calibre of ammo, 2 AK47 rifles and 4 magazines to one AKA Bolish who resides in Wukari LGA of Taraba State.
e. Fighting Patrols.
(1) On 20 December 2023, troops while on fighting patrol made contact with violent extremist/insurgents in Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State. During the operation, troops neutralized 2 criminals while others fled.
(2) On 23 December 2023, troops in a separate operation conducted fighting patrols in Giwa and Chikun LGAs of Kaduna State. During the operations, troops made contact with violent extremist. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 8 violent extremists/insurgent while others fled. Troops 2 AK47 rifles, one Dane gun and 7 motorcycles amongst others.

SUMMARY 

13. Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 10 terrorists, arrested 4 terrorists and rescued 2 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 4 AK47 rifles, one dane gun, 4 magazines, 2,900 rounds of unspecified calibre, empty case of 7.62mm Special amongst other items.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST)

14. The troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI responded to kidnapping terrorists activities in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. Troops conducted offensive operations Kankara and Zurmi LGAs of Katsina and Zamfara States respectively. Troops conducted raid operation in Shanga LGA of Kebbi State. Troops also conduct fighting Danmusa, Matazu and Zurmi LGAs of Katsina and Zamfara States as well as Goronyo LGA of Sokoto State respectively.
15. Additionally, troops ambushed violent extremist/insurgent in Giwa LGA of Kaduna State.
16. Details are as follows;

a. Rescue of Kidnapped Victims. On 20 December 2023, troops while on patrol responded to kidnapped incident in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. On sighting troops, the criminals fled abandoning 3 of their kidnapped hostages.
d. Offensive Operations.
(1) On 22 December 2023, troops conducted offensive operation and made contact with violent extremists in Kankara LGA of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized and rescued 52 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered one fabricated rifle, 10 rounds of 7.62mm and one boafeng radio.
(2) On 25 December 2023, troops conducted offensive operation and made contact with violent extremist/insurgents in ZURMI LGA of ZAMFARA State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized unconfirmed number of insurgents and rescued 2 kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered one dane gun, 7 bandoliers, military kits, 5 boafeng radios, 2 radio chargers, one PKT empty ammo box, one Dane gun, one PKT board, 7 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, one holster and PKT links.
e. Surrender of Repentant Violent Extremist/Insurgent. On 20 December 2023, one repentant violent extremist/insurgent surrendered to troops in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. The criminal claimed to have operated under MALLAM SADIKU, a notorious extremist kingpin op around NIGER and KADUNA States. Troops recovered 4 IEDs, 2 mobile phones and the sum of Forty Three Thousand Naira (₦43,000.00) only.
f. Raid Operation. On 21 December 2023, following a tip off, troops with hybrid forces raided a suspected violent extremist/insurgents’ hideout in Shanga LGA of Kebbi State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized one insurgent identified as Tambaya.
h. Fighting Patrols. Between 21 and 23 December 2023, troops in a separate operations conducted fighting patrols in Danmusa, Matazu and Zurmi LGAs of Katsina and Zamfara States respectively as well as Goronyo LGA of Sokoto State. During the operations, troops made contact with violent extremists. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 3 extremists and rescued 14 kidnapped hostages.
j. Violent Extremist/Insurgent Activities. On 23 December 2023, troops conducted fighting patrols to insurgents’ camps in Danmusa and Kankara LGAs of Katsina State. During the operations, troops made no contact with extremists. Troops exploited the general area and recovered one locally made pistol, 7 dane guns, one rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, military kits and one magazine amongst others.
n. Ambush on Violent Extremist/Insurgent. On 24 December 2023, troops with hybrid forces ambushed violent extremist/insurgent in Giwa LGA Kaduna State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized one insurgent while others fled. Troops recovered one AK47 rifle loaded with 5 rounds of 7.62mm Special, 4 motorcycles and one boafeng radio..

SUMMARY 

17. Overall, troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI neutralized 8 violent extremist, arrested 5 terrorists and rescued 62 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered one AK47 rifles loaded with 5 rounds of 7.62mmspecia, one fabricated rifle, one locally made pistol, 8 dane guns, 7 bandolier, 800 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 4 magazines, 8 motorcycles, boafeng radios, 2 radio chargers, one PKT empty ammo box, one Dane gun, one PKT board, 7 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, PKT links, 4 motorcycles and one boafeng radio

OP WHIRL PUNCH (NORTH WEST)

18. Troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH raided a suspected terrorist’s hideouts in Bwari, Gwagwalada, AMAC and Kwali Area Councils of FCT Abuja. Troops conducted fighting in Kuje Area Council as well Birnin Gwari and Kachia LGAs of Kaduna State. Troops also arrsillegal miners in Kuje Area Council of FCT Abuja.
19. Details as follows: 

a. Raid Operations. Between 20 and 25 December 2023, troops in a separate operations raided suspected criminal hideouts in Bwari, Gwagwalada, AMAC and Kwali Area Councils of Abuja FCT. During the operations, troops arrested 27 suspects including suspected kidnappers informant, notorious drug peddler and cultists. Troops recovered 2 motorcycles, 20 mobile phones, cutlasses, substances suspected to be cannabis and other illicit drugs.
f. Fighting Patrol.
(1) On 20 December 2023, troops on fighting patrol arrested a suspected criminal in Kuje Area Council of FCT, Abuja. During the operation, troops recovered one locally fabricated gun with 12 live cartridges and one vehicle with multiple plates numbers.
(2) On 21 December 2023, troops in a separate operations made contact with criminals in Kachia and Birnin Gwari LGAs of Kaduna State as well as Shiroro LGA of Niger State respectively. Following a fire fight, troops 5 violent extremists and recued 13 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 2 AK47 rifles, 6 magazines, 2 mobile phones, 3 motorcycles and the sum of N15,000.00 only.
g. Arrest of Suspected Illegal Miners. On 22 December 2023, following info on the activities of insurgents, troops conducted fighting patrol in Kuje Area Council FCT Abuja. During, troops discovered and exhumed 5 body of a suspected kidnapped victims in a shallow grave. Troops further continued search and arrested 5 suspects. Troops recovered 2 AK47 rifles, one G3 rifle, 3 magazines with 61 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammo, 12 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammo, 2 locally fabricated guns, 2 locally fabricated pistols, one cutlass, 10 live cartridges, one vehicle and one motorcycle. Preliminary investigation revealed that suspects were illegal miners.
SUMMARY

20. Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized 3 terrorists, arrested 10 suspected terrorists and rescued 15 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered one AK47 rifle, one locally made pistol, 2 magazines, one damaged AK47 magazine, one mobile phone and one AK47 rifle clearing rod amongst other items.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION DELTA SAFE (SOUTH SOUTH)

21. Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE maintained momentum against the activities of crude oil theft. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites and recovered stolen products.
22. Details as follows:

a. Troops Destroy Illegal Refining Sites. Troops recovered 61,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 58,225 litres of illegally refined AGO. Troops also apprehended 11 suspected oil thefts. Additionally, Troops discovered and destroyed 4 dugout pits, 4 boats, 31 storage tanks, 6 receivers, 10 cooling systems, 2 motorcycles. Other items rec incl 23 cooking ovens, 7 reservoirs, and 13 illegal refining sites.

SUMMARY

23. Overall, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE recovered 57350 litres of stolen crude oil, 185,500 litres of illegally refined AGO and 20,800 litres of PMS. Additionally, Troops discovered and destroyed 15 dugout pits, 25 boats, 74 storage tanks, 10 receivers, 10 cooling systems, 5 motorcycles and 14 vehicles. Other items rec incl 54 cooking ovens, 13 reservoirs and 35 illegal refining sites.
24. Troops also apprehended 12 suspected oil thefts and other criminals elements as well as neutralized one criminal, troops recovered one AK47 rifle, one dane gun, one cartridge,14 assorted ammunition, one magazine and 5 mobile phones amongst other.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION UDO KA (SOUTH EAST)

25. Troops of Operation UDO KA raided suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Afipko South LGA of Ebonyi State. Troops arrested suspected IPOB criminal in Aninrie LGA of Enugu State. Troops neutralized suspects IPOB/ESN Ihiala and Oguta.
26. Details as follows:

a. Raid Operation. On 20 December 2023, following a tip-off, troops raided a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Afipko South LGA Ebonyi State. During the operation troops recovered one Pump action gun.
b. Arrest of Suspected IPOB/ESN Criminals.
(1) On 21 December 2023, following a tip off, troops arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN criminal in Aninrie LGA of Enugu State.
(2) On 23 December 2023, troops on patrol arrested a dismissed soldier identified as 15NA/73/1343 LCpl NWANGWU FIDELIS along with 3 other suspected IPOB/ESN criminals in Abakaliki LGA of Ebonyi State. Following the arrest, troops recovered one Pump action gun, 3 live cartridges, 2 IPOB caps, and assorted charms amongst other items.
d. Neutralization of IPOB/ESN Criminals. On 23 December 2023, troops raided IPOB hideout at a boundary between IHIALA and OGUTA LGAs of Anambra and Imo States respectively. During the fire fire 2 IPOB/ESN combatants were neutralized. Troops recovered one AK 47 Rifle with 7 rounds of 7.62mm and a pump action gun with cartridges.

(1) Troops Arrested Suspected Criminal. On 24 December 2023, troops on patrol arrested a suspect identified as Ezebuilo Kelvin in Udenu LGA of Enugu State. Troops recovered one locally fabricated pistol from the suspect.
(2) Troops Arrested Suspected Ambazonian Collaborator. On 26 December 2023, troops while on stop and search operation arrested one adult female suspected to be an informant and logistics supplier to Ambazonian Separatists in Obanliku LGA of Cross Rivers State. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect’s father is a Nigerian while her mother is a Cameroonian.
g. Attack on a Church by Hoodlums. On 25 December 2023, troops responded to information of attack at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Abakaliki LGA of Ebonyi State. On sighting troops, hoodlums fled forsaking their activities. Troops exploited the general area and recovered one AK47 rifle with 2 magazines loaded with 48 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo in the tricycle.

SUMMARY

28. Overall, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralized 3 criminals, arrested 28 suspected IPOB/ESN criminals and rescued 5 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered; one AK 47 rifle with 7 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6 pump action guns, locally made pistols, one dane gun, 35 cartridges, 3 mobile phone and one motorcycle amongst other items. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.