FRESH UPDATE FROM DHQ: On Ongoing Military Operations By The Armed Forces Of Nigeria As At 29 February 2024.

By Helen Udoh, Outlook Media ABUJA.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST)

1. Troops of Operation HADIN KAI recorded the following activities during the period under review; arrested suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists and intercepted surrendered ISWAP/JAS terrorists fighters in Bama, Monguno, Ngala, Konduga, Gwoza and Kukawa LGAs all in Borno State as well as Damaturu LGA of Yobe State.
2. Details as follows:

a. Arrests Suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists. Between 19 and 20 February 2024, troops in separate operations arrested one suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists fighter and 5 collaborators in Bama, Monguno and Ngala LGAs of Borno State as well as Damaturu LGA of Yobe State respectively. Troops recovered one AK47 rifle, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special, one baofeng radio, military accoutrements, assorted charms and 120 litres of chemical solution amongst others.
b. Surrender of BH/ISWAP Terrorists Fighters. On 19 February 2024, 30 suspected BH/ ISWAP terrorists and family members comprising 9 adult males, 7 adult females and 14 children surrendered to troops in Konduga, Gwoza and Kukawa LGAs of Borno State. Troops recovered 7 AK47 rifle, one dane gun, 170 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one hand grenade and 5 mobile phones.
c. Surrender of BH/ISWAP/JAS Terrs. Between 21 and 27 Feb 24, a total of 195 BH/ISWAP/JAS terrorists fighters and thier families comprising 16 adult males 69 adult females and 110 children surrendered to troops within the theatre operations.
d. Arrest of Suspected BH/ISWAP Terrorists. On 21 February 2024, troops while on patrol arrested 2 suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists in Magumeri LGA of Borno State. Suspects identified as Ahmadu Lawan and Ibrahim Idi.
e. Discovery of UXO. On 21 February 2024, troops on patrol responded to information on discovery of UXO in Kukawa LGA of Borno State.
f. Ambush on ISWAP/JAS Terr. Between 21 and 27 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces in separate operations ambushed suspected ISWAP/JAS terrorists and made contact in Gwoza, Jere and Mobbar LGAs of Borno State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 32 terrorists and recovered 21 AK47 rifles, 11 fabricated AK47 rifles, one GPMG, 3 hand grenades, one RPG tube, 2 RPG bombs, one dummy rifle, 432 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 342 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 121 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 10 magazines, 2 baofeng radios, 15 motorcycles, 16 mobile phones and 9 bicycles amongst others.
g. Fighting Patrols. Between 23 and 26 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces in separate operations conducted fighting patrols in Konduga, Kaga, Mobbar and Dikwa LGAs of Borno State. During the operations, troops made contact with terrorists. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 18 terrorists and recovered 14 AK47 rifles, 2 fabricated guns, 4 dane guns, one x 36 hand grenade, 10 magazines, 234 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 123 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 4 motorcycles and 3 mobile phones.
h. Arrest of Suspected BH/ISWAP Terr Log Sup. Between 23 and 26 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces in separate operations arrested 6 suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists collaborators in Kaga, Monguno, Konduga and Biu LGAs of Borno State. During the operations, troops recovered 4 mobile phones, food stuffs, medical supplies and the sum of N310,500.00 amongst others.

i. Surrender of BH/ISWAP Terr Fighter with Family Members. On 25 February 2024, a total of 44 BH/ISWAP terrorists fighters with their families comprising of 10 adult males, 15 adult females and 29 children surrendered to troops in Monguno, Biu and Bama LGAs of Borno State. Troops recovered 11 AK47 rifles, 4 magazines, one hand grenade, 234 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 3 motorcycles, 4 mobile phones and military camouflage.
j. Arrest of Suspected Terrorist/Armed Robber. On 25 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces intercepted and arrested one armed robbery suspect identifed as Musa Muhammadu in Monguno LGA of Borno State.
k. Surrendered of BH/ISWAP/JAS Terrorists Escapees. On 26 and 27 February 2024, a total of 32 suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists family members comprising one adult male, 8 adult females and 21 children surrendered to troops in Gwoza and Mafa LGAs of Borno State.
l. Meeting Engagement. On 26 February 2024, troops while on patrol made contact with BH/ISWAP terrorists in Gujba LGA of Yobe State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 7 terrorists and recovered 5 fabricated AK47 rifles, 2 dane guns, 201 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 73 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 3 motorcycles and 2 mobile phones.
m.​ Recovery of weapon. On 26 February 2024, troops on patrol recovered an abandoned one AK47 rifle in Damboa LGA of Borno State. Preliminary investigation revealed that weapon was abandoned by suspected BH/ISWAP terrorists while fleeing.

3. Following confirmatory ISR and INTREP on the massing up of terrorists including 3 commanders identified as Abacha, Bakura and Babangida in a suspected IED factory in the North West of Arina Woje. The air component of Operation HADIN KAI on 18 February 2024, conducted air interdiction on the location. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists including the 3 commanders were neutralized and the IED factory also destroyed.
4. Furthermore, 20 February 2024, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI while conducting armed recconaissance sighted and engaged terrorists converging for onward attack. Subsequently, the target was acquired and attacked with rockets and bombs. Feedback revealed that several terrorists were neutralized and their logistics destroyed.

SUMMARY

5. Overall, troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralized 57 terrorists and arrested 13 BH/ISWAP terrorists. Troops recovered one GPMG, 55 AK47 rifles, 18 fabricated guns, 3 dane guns, one RPG tube, 2 RPG bombs, 6 hand grenades, 1,095 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 666 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 194 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 24 magazines, 25 motorcycles, 34 mobile phones and the sum of N310,500.00 among others.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL)

6. Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN recorded the following during the period under review; arrested suspected violent extremists/gunrunners, conducted fighting patrol and conducted clearance/rescued operation in Jema’a, Kaura and Lere LGAs of Kaduna State as well as Bassa and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau State.
7. Details are as follows: 

a. Arrests of Suspected Violent Extremists/Gunrunners. On 21 February 2024, following report, troops with DSS operatives tracked and arrested 2 suspected violent extremists/gunrunners in Jema’a LGA of Kaduna State. Suspects identified as Janaidu Mohammed and Nasiru Bello on their way to deliver ammo in an undisclosed location in Zamfara State. During the operation, troops recovered 397 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and 2 mobile phones.
b. Fighting Patrol. On 21 February 2024, troops while conducting fighting patrol arrested 4 suspected violent extremists/terrorists in Bassa and Barkin Ladi LGAs of Plateau State.
c. Clearance/Rescue Operation. On 22 February 2024, troos with hybrid forces conducted clearance operation in Kauru and Lere LGAs of Kaduna State. During the operation, troops arrested 2 violent extremists/kidnappers and rescued one kidnap hostage. Suspects were identified as Abdullahi Ibrahim (30 yrs) and Buhari Bello (20 yrs).
d. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Terrorists. On 22 February 2024, following a tip-off, troops arrested one suspected violent extremist/insurgents in Mangu LGA of Plateau State. Suspects identified as Mohammed Bello was alledge to be sewing military uniforms for suspected violent extremists. During the operation, troops recovered one fabricated pistol, 34 cartridges, military uniforms and one mobile phone.
e. Kidnap Incidents. On 23 February 2024, troops on patrol responded to a distress call on kidnapping incident and made contact with insurgents in Bassa LGA of Platuea State. Folllwoing a fire fight, troops neutralized 3 and arrested 3 suspected kidnappers. Troops also recovered 2 fabricated guns, 2 dane guns, 3 motorcycles, one mobile phone and assorted charms.
f. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Kidnappers. On 25 February 2024, Base on credible INTEL, troops arrested 5 suspected violent extremists/kidnappers in Qua’an Pan LGA of Plateau State. Troops also recovered 2 fabricated rifles, 2 dane guns, 71 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 33 cartridges and 3 empty cases of 7.62 mm special ammo.
g. Offensive Op. On 25 February 2024, troops while conducting offensive operations arrested 2 suspected violent extremists/terrorists in Qua’an Pan LGA of Plateau State. Troops recovered one fabricated rifle, 33 live cartridges and 62 empty cases of 7.62mm special ammo.
h. Foiled Armed Robbery Incident. On 25 February 2024, troops responded to distress call on sporadic shooting by suspected violent extremists/armed robbers in Mangu LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, troops made with extremists. Following a fire, troops neutralized 3 insurgents and arrested 2 suspects. Troops also recovered 3 fabricated rifles, 2 dane guns, 87 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 2 empty cases of 7.62mm special ammo and one mobile phone amonsgt others.

SUMMARY

8. Overall, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized 3 insurgents, arrested 27 violent extremists and one rescued kidnapped hostage. Troops recovered 10 fabricated guns, one fabricated pistol, 7 dane guns, 517 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 71 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 103 live cartridges, 67 empty cases of 7.62mm special, 2 motorcycles and 8 mobile phones amongst other items.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE (NORTH CENTRAL)

9. Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded the following during the week under review; conducted raid operation and rescued kidnapped hostages in Katsina-Ala and Ukum LGAs of Benue State.
10. Details are as follows: 

a. Raid Operations. On 21 February 2024, troops raided a suspected violent extremists/terrorists leader hideout in Katsina-Ala LGA of Benue State. Troops made contact with insurgents. During the operation, troops recovered one locally fabricated pistol, 22 rounds of 9mm ammo and one rifle butt amongst others.
b. Rescue kidnap Victims. On 21 February 2024, troops conducted search and rescue operation to violent extremists/kidnappers enclaves in Ukum LGA of Benue State. Troops made contact with violent extremists. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 7 insurgents and rescued 12 hostages. Troops also recovered 5 fabricated guns, 128 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 4 magazines and one vehicle.
c. Fighting Patrols. On 24 February 2024, troops in separate operations conducted fighting patrols in Makurdi and Gwer-West LGA of Benue State as well as Toto LGA of Nasarawa State. During the operations, troops arrested 6 suspected violent extremists and recovered 4 dane guns, 2 fabricated pistols, 87 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 34 rounds of 9mm, 5 mobile phones and cutlasses amongst others.
d. Rescue Operations. On 21 February 2024, troops raided a suspected violent extremists/kidnappers hideout in Ukum LGA of Benue State. During the operation, troops rescued 12 kidnapped hostages and recovered one locally fabricated revolver gun and one vehicle.
e. Bassa Militia Attk on Civs. On 26 February 2024, troops on patrol responded to violent extremists/militia activities amd made contact in Toto LGA of Nasarawa State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 8 insurgents and recovered 6 AK47 rifles, 2 G3 riffles, 2 pump action guns, 3 magazines, one G3 magazine, 254 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 141 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 145 x 7.62mm NATO ammo, 132 cartridges of 7.62mm x 39mm ball special rounds and 4 pump action cartridges.
f. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremist/Terrorists. On 24 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces arrested 2 suspected violent extremists/militias in Toto LGA of Nasarawa State. Suspects were identified as Ibrahim Garba and Abdullahi Garba.

SUMMARY 

11. Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralized 15 violent extremists/terrorists, arrested 10 violent extremists and rescued 27 kidnapped hostage. Troops recovered 6 AK47 rifles, 2 G3 rifles, 2 pump action guns, 5 fabricated guns, 3 fabricated pistols, one fabricated revolver gun, 254 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 215 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 56 rounds of 9mm ammo, 136 live cartridges, 141 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, one G3 magazine, 7 magazines, one rifle butt, one vehicle, and 5 mobile phones amongst others.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST)

12. The troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI recorded the following during the period under review; rescue kidnapped hostages and conducted fighting patrol Danmusa and Kankara LGAs of Katsina State.
13. Details are as follows;

a. Rescue of Kidnapped Hostages. On 19 February 2024, troops while on patrol foiled kidnapping incident in Danmusa LGA of Katsina State. During operation, troops rescued 14 kidnapped hostages.
b. Fighting Patrol. On 22 February 2024, troops while on fighting patrol made contact with terrorists in Kankara LGA of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 13 terrorists and recovered 9 AK47 rifles, 4 fabricated rifles, 209 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 111 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 6 motorcycles and 3 mobile phones amongst others.
c. Violent Extremists/Insurgs Activities.
(1) On 21 February 2024, troos in seperate operations responded to terrorist activities and made contact in Malumfashi and Kankara LGAs of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 10 terrorists and 7 AK47 rifles, 2 fabricated guns, 3 dane guns, 123 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 89 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one fabricated pistol, one baofeng radio and 5 motorcycles.
(2) On 23 February 2024, troops in separate operations responded to terrorist activities in Illela and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State as well as Gusau and Tsafe LGAs of Zamfara State.During the operations, troops arrested 13 suspects and rescued 5 kidnapped hostages.
(3) On 24 and 25 Feb 24, troops in separate of operations responded to kidnapping incidents and made contact with terrorists in Faskari and Jibia LGAs of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 5 terrorists and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages including a 5 months old baby.
d. Ambush on Violent Extremist/Isurgs.
(1) On 21 February 2024, following INTREP on violent extremists/terrorists movement, troops ambushed terrorists in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State. Troops made contact with terrorists. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 22 terrorists and recovered 17 AK47 rifles, 4 fabricated rifles, 300 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 230 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 9 magazines, one Baofeng radio, one magazine carrier and 5 motorcycles.
(2) On 26 February 2024, troops ambushed suspected terrorists and made contact in Danmusa LGA of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 15 terrorists and recovered 10 AK47 rifles, 4 dane guns, 231 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 102 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 6 motorcycles and 3 mobile phones.
f. Fighting Patrols
(1) Between 21 and 24 February 2024, troops in separate conducted fighting patrols and made contact in Tangaza, Gudu, Gwadabawa and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 27 terrorists and arrested 11 suspects. Troops also recovered 19 AK47 rifles, 5 fabricated rifles, 2 fabricated pistols, 410 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 234 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 16 rounds of 7.62mm NATO belted ammo, 11 magazines, 5 fragmental jackets, 3 baofeng radios, 3 AK47 butt’s, 9 motorcycles, 5 mobile phones and substance suspected to be cannabis.
(2) On 22 February 2024, troops while conducting fighting patrol made contact with suspected terrorists in Kankara LGA of Katsina State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 5 terrorists and recovered 3 fabricated AK47 rifles, 123 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 3 motorcycles and one mobile phone.
g. Recovery of Weapon. On 21 February 2024, following a tip-off, troops recovered an abandoned one AK47 rifle and a decomposed body suspected to be a terrorists.
h. Rescue of Kidnapped Victims. On 23 and 26 February 2024, troops in separate operations responded to information suspected terrorists/kidnappers activities in Bukuyyum and Dandume LGAs of Zamfara and Katsina States respectively. During the operations, troops rescued 8 kidnapped hostages.

14. On 21 February 2024, the air component of Operation HADARIN DAJI conducted air interdiction following intel on convergence of terrorists group in an abandoned school in North West of Rugar Gamji. The location was subsequently acquired and engaged with rockets. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralized and their structures destroyed.
15. Furthermore, On 24 February 2024, the air component of Operation HADARIN DAJI conducted air interdiction on terrorists kingpin Maudi enclave in Safana LGA of Katsina State. The location was observed to be active with terrorists activities. Subsequently the location was acquired and attacked with bomb and rockets in multiple passes. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralized and their structures destroyed.

SUMMARY 

16. Overall, troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI neutralized 97 terrorists, arrested 25 terrorists and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 63 AK47 rifles, 18 locally fabricated guns, 3 fabricated pistols, 7 dane guns, 1,144 rounds of 7.62mm special, 1,018 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 16 rounds of 7.62mm NATO belted, 20 magazines, 32 motorcycles, 5 baofeng radios and 12 mobile phones amonsgt other items.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION WHIRL PUNCH (NORTH WEST)

17. The troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH recorded the following during the week under review; rescued kidnapped hostages, ambushed violent extremists/terrorists and arrested suspected violent extremists Informants in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State and Bwari Area Councils of FCT Abuja.
18. Details are as follows;

a. Rescue of Kidnap Hostages. On 21 February 2024, troops while on patrol responded to a distress call on violent extremists/terrorists activities in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State. During the operation, troops made contact. Following a fire fight, terrorists neutralized 7 insurgents and rescued 13 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 4 fabricated guns, 3 dane guns, 82 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 64 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 4 motorcycles and 2 mobile phones amongst others.
b. Ambush on Violent Extremists/Terrorists. On 19 February 2024, following a tip-off, troops ambushed violent extremists/terrorists and made contact in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 17 insurgents and recovered 13 AK47 rifles, 2 dane guns, 2 locally fabricated pistols, 243 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 101 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 76 rounds of 9mm ammo, 6 magazines, 4 motorcycles and 2 mobile phones. Preliminary investigation revealed that a nototous violent extremist kingpin Boderi Iliya was also neutralized in the operation.
c. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Terrorists Informants. On 21 and 23 February 2024, troos with hybrid forces raided suspected violent extremists/terrorists hideouts in Bwari Area Council of FCT Abuja. During the operations, troops arrested 3 suspected violent extremists/terrorists informants.
d. Fighting Ptls.
(1) On 22 and 26 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces in separate operations conducted fighting patrols in Kauru, Lere and and Jema’a LGAs of Kaduna State. During the operations, troops arrested 8 suspected violent extremists/kidnappers and rescued one kidnapped hostage. Troops recovered 3 dane guns and 45 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.
(2) On 26 February 2024, troops while conducting fighting made contact with violent extremists/terrorists in Giwa LGA of Kaduna State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 4 insurgents and recovered 2 dane guns, 15 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 2 motorcycles.
e. Search and Rescue Operation. On 21 February 2024, troops conducted search and rescue operation and made contact with terrorists in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 7 terrorists and rescued 13 kidnapped hostages. Troops also recovered 5 AK47 rifles, one dane gun, 103 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 32 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, one baofeng radio, one mobile phone and the sum of N13,200.00 amongst other items.
f. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Insurgs. On 21 February 2024, troops on patrol arrested 6 suspected violent extremists/terrorists in Munya LGA of Niger State.
g. Raid Operations.
(1) On 23 February 2024, troops raided a suspected violent extremists/terrorists hideout and made contact in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 8 terrorists and recovered 123 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and 2 mobile phones.
(2) Between 22 and 24 February 2024, troops in separate operations raided suspected violent extremists/terrorists hideouts and illegal mining sites in Bwari, Gwagwalada and AMAC Area Councils of FCT Abuja. During the operations, troops arrested 9 suspected violent extremists/informants and illegal miners.
h. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Kidnapper. On 27 February 2024, following a HUMINT, troops with hybrid forces 4 arrested suspected violent extremists and kidnapper in Kagargo LGA of Kaduna State. Troops recovered one Dane gun fabricated to fire 7.62mm ammo and 8 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammo.

19. On 21 February 2024, following INTREP, the air component of Operation WHIRL PUNCH conducted air interdiction on violent extremists/terrorists kingpin Boderi Isyaku enclaves. The location was observed and subsequently attacked with rockets and cannons. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralized including notorious kingpin and their structures destroyed.
20. Furthermore, on 22 February 2024, following a confirmatory ISR, the air component of Operation WHIRL PUNCH conducted air interdiction on violent extremists/terrorists Saleh Kawaje kingpin enclave in Birnin Gwari LGA of Kaduna State. The location was confirmed to be active with terrorists activities. Subsequently, the location was acquired and attacked with rockets. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralized and their structures destroyed.
21. Additionally, following credible report on massing up of terrorists factions believed to be coalitions of the Kachalla Ardo and Alhaji Lawa Tsoho terrorists kingpins with intention of reprisal attack and burial arrangement of late terrorists kingpin Boderi in Chikun and Shiroro LGAs of Kaduna and Kogi States respectively. The air component of Operation WHIRL PUNCH conducted air interdiction on 23 February 2024. The locations were acquired and attacked with rockets and cannons. Battle Damage Assessment revealed several terrorists were neutralized and their structures destroyed.

SUMMARY 

22. Overall, troops of Operation WHIRL PUNCH neutralized 43 insurgents, arrested 34 violent extremists/terrorists and rescued 26 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 18 AK47 rifles, 4 locally fabricated guns, 12 dane guns, 2 fabricated pistos, 477 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 275 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 76 rounds of 9mm ammo and, 64 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 6 magazines, 10 motorcycles, one baofeng radio and 7 mobile phones amongst other items.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION DELTA SAFE (SOUTH SOUTH)

23. Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE maintained momentum against the activities of crude oil theft. Troops destroyed several illegal refining sites and recovered stolen products. Troops conducted raid operations and arrested suspected violent extremists/vandals in Oron and Onelga LGAs of Akwa Ibom and Rivers States respectively.
24. Details as follows:

a. Troops Destroy Illegal Refining Sites. Troops recovered 824,200 litres of stolen crude oil, 167,675 litres of illegally refined AGO and 900 litres of DPK. Troops also apprehended 26 suspected oil thefts. Additionally, Troops discovered and destroyed 64 dugout pits, 52 boats and 26 storage tanks. Other items recovered include 20 cooking ovens, 5 vehicles and 40 illegal refining sites.
b. Raid Operations On 20 February 2024, troops in conjunction with NDLEA operatives raided a suspected violent extremists/drug peddlers’ hideout in Oron LGA Akwa Ibom State. During the operation, troops arrested 2 suspected violent extremists/drug peddlers.
c. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/Vandals. On 20 February 2024, troops with hybrid forces responded to pipeline vandalism incident in Onelga LGA of River State. During the operation, troops arrested 2 violent extremists/vandals.
d.​ Arrest of Suspected Kidnappers. On 24 February 2024, troops on patrol reponded to a distress call on kidnapping activities in Ika South LGA of Delta State. During the operation, troops arrested 3 suspected violent extremists/kidnappers.

SUMMARY

25. Overall, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE recovered 1,289,945 litres of stolen crude oil, 399,360 litres of illegally refined AGO, 4,100 litres of DPK and 39,150 litres of PMS. Additionally, Troops discovered and destroyed 51 dugout pits, 81 boats, 520 drums and 82 storage tanks. Other items recovered include 63 cooking ovens, one outboard engine, 2 pumping machines, 5 vehicles, 3 tricycles, 13 mobile phones and 85 illegal refining sites.
26. Troops apprehended 63 suspected oil thefts and other violent extremists/insurgents. Troops also recovered 23 weapons and 235 ammunitions amongst other items.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION UDO KA (SOUTH EAST)

27. Troops of Operation UDO KA recorded the following during the week under review; arrested suspected violent extremists/IPOB in Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State.
28. Details as follows:

a. Arrest of Suspected Violent Extremists/IPOB/ESN. On 21 February 2024, troops while on patrol raided a suspected violent extremists/IPOB/ESN hideouts in Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State. During the operation, arrested 2 suspected violent extremists/IPOB members.
b. Raid Ops. On 21 and 22 February 2024, troops in separate operations arrested 3 suspected violent extremists/IPOB members in Izzi and Orsu LGAs of Ebonyi and Imo States respectively. During the operatios, troops recovered 2 automatic pump action guns, one pistol, one Baofeng radio, 114 cartridges, 79 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 2 hand held explosive devises and 3 gas cylinder amomgst others.
c. Fulani/Locals Clash. On 22 February 2024, troops responded to distress call on activities of suspected violent extremists in Nkanu East LGA of Enugu State. During the operation, troops arrested 2 suspected violent extremists.
d. Fighting Patrols. On 26 February 2024, troops conducted fighting patrol to suspected violent extremists/IPOB/ESN hideout and made contact with insurgents in Oguta LGA of Imo State. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 7 insurgents and recovered 5 automatic pump action guns, 2 revolver pistols, 249 live cartridges, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo, one vehicle and 3 mobile phones amongst others.
e. Kidnap Incident. On 25 February 2024, troops while on patrol responded to information on kidnapping incident in Igboeze North LGA of Enugu State. Troops made contact with violent extremists. Following a fire fight, troops neutralized 4 insurgents and rescued 10 kidnapped hostages. Troops recovered 3 AK47 rifles, 79 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and one vehicle.

SUMMARY

29. Overall, troops of Operation UDO KA neutralized 21 terrorists, arrested 2 violent extremists and rescued 10 kidnapped hostages Troops recovered 4 AK47 rifles, 3 pump action guns, 7 automatic pump action guns, one fabricated pistol, one pistol, 2 revolver pistols, 2 hand held explosives, 158 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 89 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 363 live cartridges, 29 rounds of 9mm ammo, 2 vehicles, 5 motorcycles and 3 mobile phones amongst other items.
30. All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.

EDWARD BUBA
Major General
Director Defence Media Operations

OTHER NEWS :

PRESS RELEASE ON ONGOING MILITARY OPERATIONS BY THE ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA AS AT 29 FEBRUARY 2024

1. The armed forces is determined to end terrorism and insecurity across the country and therefore taking concrete steps in the direction. For us , creating a safer environment for citizens translates to eliminating all threat hindering the safety and security of citizens.
2. Troops conducted synchronised strikes between  the ground and air forces on terrorist enclaves killing significant number of them. It is possible to say with significant certainty that these strikes have had significant impacted on the terrorist adversely.
3. The focus of the armed forces is to conduct its operations in support of national security interest. Consequently, in February troops recorded significant successes in theatres across the 6 geopolitical zero new of the country.
4. It is important to state that, in February 2024, troops recorded the following: neutralized 974 terrorists, arrested 621 of them and rescued 466 kidnapped hostages. Furthermore, troops recovered 1,573 assorted weapons, 23,345 assorted ammunitions and denied the oil theft of an estimated sum over #8 bn (N8,006,996,894.00) only.
5. Breakdown for the month of February includes and is not limited to the following: 640 AK47 rifles, 248 locally fabricated guns, 93 pump action guns, 168 dane guns, 15,120 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 6,102 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 512 rounds of 9mm and 2,132 live cartridges.
6. Others are 8,993,245 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,062,635 litres of illegally refined AGO, 18,950 litres of DPK and 45,950 litres of PMS amongst other item.
7. Certainly, if these terrorist groups don’t come to the table in peace. The armed forces will continue to punish them with overwhelming military force. It would be recalled that we recently took delivery of additional air platform to further enhance our lethal capabilities.
8. Contrary to the opinion of some,  troops are making significant strides and recording  notable successes in operations across the country. Though it might not seem so to some, the fact remains remarkable progress is being made.
9. Overall, I urge citizens to endure today’s pain for our tomorrow’s gain. We should take solace in knowing that, It is all in a bit to make Nigeria great again.
10. We can all begin in making Nigeria great again, by taking on the Celebrate Nigeria Challenge. I therefore throw open the Celebrate Nigeria Challenge.

EDWARD BUBA
Major General
Director Defence Media Operations

Enclosures:

1. Report on Monthly Review of Joint Task Force Operational Activities for the Month of February 2024
2. Report on Ongoing Military Operational Activities by the Armed Forces of Nigeria as of 29 February 2024.

REPORT ON MONTHLY REVIEW OF JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE MONTH OF FEBUARY 2024

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADIN KAI (NORTH EAST)

1. Details as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Wk1
Wk2
Wk3
Wk4
Wk5
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
45
7
63
70
57
242

2.
Surrendered BHT/Families
262
224
81
289
301
1,157

3.
Arrested Terrorists
8
4
19
31
13
57

4.
Rescued Hostages

18

–

24

42

5.
Recovered Weapons
51
34
77
84
86
332

6.
Recovered Ammunition
374
596
1,030
2,009
1,995
6,004

7.
Equipment Recovered
14
62
19
53
83
231

SUMMARY

2. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North East, Operation HADIN KAI in the month of February 2024 are 242 terrorist neutralized, 57 arrested suspects, 42 rescued hostages and 1,157 surrendered BH/ISWAP terrorists fighters and their families. The following were recovered 198 AK47 rifles, 61 fabricated, 30 dane guns, 45 assorted arms, 3,692 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 1,854 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 339 assorted ammunitions.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION SAFE HAVEN (NORTH CENTRAL)

4. Details are as follows:
   Serial
   Op Activity
   Wk1
   Wk2
   Wk3
   Wk4
   Wk5
   Total
   Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
17

6

5
3
31

2.
Arrested Suspects
64
44
16
36
27
187

3.
Rescued Hostages
3
6
4
5
1
19

4.
Weapons Recovered
66
31
32
10
18
157

5.
Ammunitions Recovered
404
639
156
234
691
2,124

6.
Equipment
25
2
19
24
10
80

SUMMARY

5. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North Central Operation SAFE HAVEN in the month of February 2024 are 31 terrorist neutralized, 187 arrested suspects and 19 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 52 AK47 rifles, 103 fabricated guns, 39 assorted arms, 1,138 rounds of 7.62mm special, 590 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 203 assorted ammunitions.

OPERATION WHIRL STROKE (NORTH CENTRAL)

7. Details are as follows:
   Serial
   Op Activity
   Wk1
   Wk2
   Wk3
   Wk4
   Wk5
   Total
   Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
7
29
35
14
15
100

2.
Arrested terrorists
3
21
21
5
10
67

3.
Rescued Hostages
1
9
1
5
27
53

4.
Weapons Recovered
10
30
38
25
23
126

5.
Ammunition recovered
148
1,343
842
575
802
3,710

6.
Equipment Recovered
6
13
4
12
7
42

SUMMARY

8. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North Central Operation WHIRL STROKE in the month of February 2024 are 100 terrorist neutralized, 67 arrested suspects and 53 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 61 AK47 rifles, 63 assorted arms, 2,663 rounds of 7.62mm special, 309 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 716 assorted ammunitions.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION HADARIN DAJI (NORTH WEST)

11. Details are as follows;

Serial
Op Activity
Wk1
Wk2
Wk3
Wk4
Wk5
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
65
57
68
58
97
345

2.
Arrested Terrorists
18
5
27
5
25
80

3.
Rescued Hostages
39
66
65
76
43
289

4.
Weapon Recovered
58
75
74
50
91
348

5.
Ammunition Recovered
769
1,170
1,572
923
2,178
6,612

6.
Equipment Recovered
19
30
44
15
49
175

SUMMARY

12. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North West Operation HADARIN DAJI in the month of February 2024 are 345 terrorist neutralized, 80 arrested suspects and 289 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 214 AK47 rifles, 84 fabricated guns, 47 assorted arms, 3,887 rounds of 7.62mm special, 2,048 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 199 rounds of 9mm, 26 assorted arms and 355 assorted ammunitions.
13. Notable terrorist warlords killed during the month of Feb in OPHD :

a. ASHIRU and KACHAMBI – both loyalists of Jimmo SMALLY were neutralized early Feb 24 by troops in conjunction with vigilantes around Faru, Maradun LGA.

b. Yellow DOGON RAƘUMI – top loyalist of ƊANSA’ADI was neutralized by troops on 3rd Feb, 2024 during offensive in Ƙungurki area of Ƙaura Namoda LGA.

c. . Sulen NAGALA, LAUSHI and BANGIS – all top a terrorist group under the leadership of a kingpin named NAGALA. They were neutralized by troops in conjunction with Zamfara State Community Protection Guard
on 11 Feb 24 during encounter at Gandaya area of Bingi District of Maru LGA.

d. MALAM – one of the top loyalists of Sani MAINASARA aka BLACK, was eliminated on 18 Feb 24 by Zamfara State Community Protection Guard along Koluwai Road in Zurmi LGA.

e. Alhaji BALDU, Baban YARA and Alhaji KABIRU – all associates/loyalists of Sale BAKAYA were killed on 24 Feb 24 during rival gang clash in Hayin Alhaji area of Tsafe LGA.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION WHIRL PUNCH (NORTH WEST)

11. Details are as follows;

Serial
Op Activity
Wk1
Wk2
Wk3
Wk4
Wk5
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.

Neutralized Terrorists

–
14
93
43
150

2.
Arrested Terrorists
30
11
54
32
34
161

3.
Rescued Hostages
2

2

14
26
44

4.
Weapon Recovered
2
6
15
85
36
144

5.
Ammunition Recovered
167
178
236
1,949
715
3,245

6.
Equipment Recovered
6
8
15
52
17
98

SUMMARY

12. Some of the features recorded by troops in the North West Operation WHIRL PUNCH in the month of February 2024 are 150 terrorist neutralized, 161 arrested suspects and 44 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 96 AK47 rifles, 52 assorted arms, 2,023 rounds of 7.62mm special, 355 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 638 assorted ammunitions.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION DELTA SAFE (SOUTH SOUTH)

15. Details as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Wk1
Wk2
Wk3
Wk4
Wk5
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists

5

–

5

10

2.
Arrested Terrorists
44
50
104
98
63
359

3.

Rescued Hostages

3

–

3

4.
Weapons recovered
20
20
29
9
1
79

5.
Boats destroyed
61
19
76
79
81
316

6.
Ammunitions Recovered
243
243
202
171
235
1,094

8.
Illegal refining sites
51
18
18
74
85
246

9.
Vehicles
13
9
12
11
13
58

SUMMARY

16. Some of the features recorded by troops in the South South Operation DELTA SAFE in the month of February 2024 are 10 terrorist neutralized and 359 oil thefts and other suspected violent extremists. Also, oil theft were denied 8,993,245 litres of crude oil, 1,062,635 litres of AGO, 18,950 litres of DPK and 45,940 litres of PMS. Additionally, troops recovered 79 assorted weapons and destroyed 316 wooden boats, 3859 assorted ammunitions and 246 illegal refining sites.

JOINT TASK FORCE OPERATION UDO KA (SOUTH EAST)

18. Details are as follows:

Serial
Op Activity
Wk1
Wk2
Wk3
Wk4
Wk5
Total
Rmks

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)

1.
Neutralized Terrorists
18
6
22
39
21
106

2.
Arrested Terrorists
36
5
11
10
7
69

3.
Rescued Hostages

8

1

10
19

4.
Weapons Recovered
16
8
26
36
21
10

5.
Ammunitions Recovered
268
1,320
203
993
638
3,422

6.
Equipment Recovered
18
1
41
33
11
104

SUMMARY

19. Some of the features recorded by troops in the South East Operation UDO KA in the month of February 2024 are 106 terrorist neutralized, 69 arrested suspects and 19 rescued hostages. The following were recovered 19 AK47 rifles, 46 pump action guns, 1,717 rounds of 7.62mm special, 586 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 864 live cartridges, 263 assorted ammunitions and 60 other equipment.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT AIR INTERDICTIONS BY AIR COMPONENT ACROSS VARIOUS THEATRES OF OPERATIONS IN FEBUARY 2024

AIR INTERDICTION IN OPERATION HADIN KAI ( NE)

20. On 9 February 2024, terrorists hijacked 2 trailers vehicles along Road Gurbin Baure-Jibia and diverted the vehicles and drivers to a forest feeder road at Dogon karfe location in Katsina State.
    Air strikes were subsequently conducted against the terrorists. As a result of the strike, the drivers of the trucks and other victims escaped from the scene while some of the food stuff were salvaged.
21. On 19 February 2024, airstrikes by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai resulted in the elimination of scores of ISWAP fighters including 3 Commanders in Marte Local Government Area, in Borno State.
    The terrorists were trailed around a remote village at Arinna Woje.
    A day after the strikes, the bodies of the 3 Commanders including Abacha, Bakura, an indigene of Jibularam, Babangida as well as 22 other jihadists were later recovered.

AIR INTERDICTION IN OPERATION HADARIN DAJI

22. On 21 February 2024, air interdiction missions were conducted against terrorists at Rugar Gamji and an abandoned primary school near Gidan Gwanki in Katsina State. The strikes successfully destroyed and neutralized about thirty (30) terrorists and their motorcycles that were hidden in the abandoned structures. On same day, 7 motorcycle-riding terrorists were also neutralized at Gidan Guga in Katsina State
23. On 24 February 2024, air interdiction was conducted at TSORA HILL in Safana LGA of Katsina State. Feedback received confirmed that over 20 terrorists were neutralized.

AIR INTERDICTION IN OPERATION DELTA SAFE ( SS)

24. On 23 February 2024, a kidnap kingpin, David Okpala Okpolowu, widely recognized as “2 Baba,” notorious for terrorizing Rivers State and neighboring areas, succumbed to injuries sustained in an airstrike conducted by the NAir component of of OPDS in Ahoada Forest, Rivers State.
25. The airstrike, which was part of a joint operations with the Nigerian Police in Port Harcourt, was initiated based on credible intelligence indicating the presence of “2 Baba” and his criminal gang hiding in the swampy forest. The precise targeting of the strike on resulted in the complete obliteration of the gathering. Reliable human intelligence confirmed that “2 Baba” was among the survivors who sustained severe injuries from the airstrike but succumbed to his injuries at another location.
26. Recall that David Okpala Okpolowu AKA “2 baba” has been evading authorities for several months following his alleged involvement in the ruthless murder of Bako Angbasim, a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ahoada-East Local Government Area. The incident resulted in the killing and dismemberment of DPO’s body.

EDWARD BUBA
Major General
Director Defence Media Operations