Troops crush terror cells, nab 578, rescue 134 in July

In an intensified onslaught against insecurity, Nigeria’s Armed Forces have recorded decisive victories across multiple theatres of operation in July 2025, neutralising notorious terrorist commanders, arresting hundreds of insurgents, rescuing kidnapped victims, and foiling oil theft worth over ₦1.3 billion.

Presenting a comprehensive press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed that 578 suspected terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements were arrested across the country, with 134 kidnapped victims rescued.

The month’s operations witnessed the surrender of terrorist commander Ibn Ali along with 151 fighters and family members. Among those eliminated were infamous warlords such as Yellow Danbokolo, Amir Dunkei, Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu and Ali Yar Daribiyar.

“Our forces remain fully engaged in tackling insurgency, banditry, oil theft, and communal violence with discipline, transparency, and integrity,” Major General Kangye stated. “We act in full compliance with international humanitarian law and respect for human rights.”

In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI targeted ISWAP and Boko Haram cells in Borno and Adamawa states, killing many, arresting eight insurgents, and rescuing two victims. Among the suspects captured were international elements, including one unable to speak English, Hausa, or Kanuri-suspected to be from Niger Republic.

The North West theatre (Operation FANSAN YAMMA) conducted tactical incursions into Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Sokoto states, resulting in multiple arrests, the rescue of six kidnapped persons, and the elimination of terrorists.

Plateau, Kaduna, and Bauchi states experienced significant arrests during Operation SAFE HAVEN, with wanted extremist Dayabu Idris being captured. Troops also responded promptly to distress calls, seizing arms, vehicles, and motorcycles.

In Benue, Kogi, FCT, and Niger states, Operation WHIRL STROKE forces dismantled armed camps and detained 13 criminals while rescuing three victims. High-profile arrests in Taraba and Nasarawa further strained insurgent supply networks.

Under Operation DELTA SAFE, troops stopped the theft of 974,976 litres of crude oil and destroyed 73 illegal refining sites. Arrests included 285 suspects involved in crude siphoning and pipeline vandalism. Additionally, offensive raids in Rivers and Delta states resulted in 18 arrests related to oil theft, cultism, and drug trafficking.

Troops of Operation UDO KA maintained a firm grip on flashpoints in Enugu, Imo, and Cross River states, eliminating one IPOB/ESN suspect and arresting several others. Arms, mobile phones, and vehicles were confiscated, and suspects remain under interrogation.

General Kangye confirmed that the Armed Forces are operating under the directive of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in accordance with President Bola Tinubu’s mandate for security sector reforms.

“Every operation is intelligence-led and professionally executed to restore peace, protect citizens, and uphold sovereignty,” he noted.

While challenges persist, particularly in porous border regions and oil-producing zones, the month’s gains underscore a revitalised military approach, combining air raids, joint task forces, and community engagement.

The Defence Headquarters pledged continued updates and called on Nigerians to maintain faith in the Armed Forces’ capability to deliver a safer, united nation.