The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has continued its aggressive operations across the country, dealing decisive blows to terrorists, oil thieves, and other criminal elements. This was disclosed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, during the bi-weekly media briefing held today, Thursday, 13th June 2025, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
Addressing Defence Correspondents, Major General Kangye noted that the military remained committed to protecting lives, defending national assets, and ensuring peace and security across all regions of Nigeria.
According to him, troops conducted a series of coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic operations from 6 to 13 June 2025, which led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, arrest of criminal collaborators, rescue of over 20 kidnapped victims, and the recovery of arms, ammunition, stolen crude oil, and other assets.
In the South-South region, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE discovered and destroyed 73 illegal crude oil ovens, 21 illegal refining sites, 32 dugout pits, and recovered 142,960 litres of stolen crude oil, 39,175 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 29,500 litres of DPK. The economic loss averted was estimated at over ₦146.6 million, while 23 suspects were arrested during these operations.
In the North East, under Operation HADIN KAI, troops continued to dominate terrorist enclaves in Borno State. Numerous insurgents, along with their families, surrendered, while troops also rescued six kidnapped victims and arrested five terrorist collaborators, including a Chinese national.
Major General Kangye disclosed that the arrested Chinese national is currently undergoing interrogation, and the outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.
The North West theatre under Operation FASAN YAMMA saw clearance and ambush missions in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kaduna States, leading to the neutralisation of terrorists, recovery of arms, motorcycles, and logistics items, and the rescue of six kidnapped victims.
In the North Central zone, operations under SAFE HAVEN and WHIRL STROKE led to the arrest of gunmen and armed militia members in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. Troops recovered assault rifles, ammunition, motorcycles, and rustled livestock, which were returned to their owners.
In the South East, under Operation UDO KA, security forces raided hideouts of IPOB/ESN elements in Anambra and Ebonyi States. Ten suspects were apprehended, and one was neutralised in a gun duel, with the recovery of arms, ammunition, vehicles, and communication devices.
Major General Markus Kangye commended the resilience and professionalism of troops across the country and urged continued public cooperation.
“Our operations are yielding results because of synergy, credible intelligence, and the commitment of our personnel. Nigerians should rest assured that we will not relent until all threats to peace and security are neutralised,” he said.
