Military Crushes Terror Networks: 450 Terrorists Arrested, 180 Hostages Freed in September – DHQ

Nigeria’s Armed Forces have recorded major victories in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and oil theft — arresting 450 terrorists and rescuing 180 kidnapped victims in a series of nationwide operations throughout September, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, revealed the figures in a statement on Saturday, noting that the operations were carried out under several joint task forces, including Operation Hadin Kai, Operation Safe Haven, Operation Whirl Stroke, Operation Udo Ka, Operation Delta Safe, and Operation Enduring Peace.

According to Kangye, 39 terrorists voluntarily surrendered, while troops recovered a shocking cache of arms and ammunition — 63 assorted weapons, 4,475 rounds of ammunition, and 294 other items such as grenades, motorcycles, vehicles, IED materials, and communication gadgets.

In the Niger Delta, troops under Operation Delta Safe struck a heavy blow on oil thieves, seizing and destroying ₦112.17 million worth of stolen crude and dismantling 41 illegal refining sites.

The Armed Forces remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the lawful execution of all missions in accordance with international and domestic rules of engagement,” Kangye assured.

He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to protect civilians, safeguard personnel welfare, and sustain the pressure on criminal elements threatening national security.

These fresh successes come as Sahel intelligence agencies intensify efforts to expose political figures allegedly backing terrorist networks, signaling what could be a new phase in the region’s counterterrorism drive.

Written by Gold Oyeniran