…arrests Chinese national and five collaborators in joint operation against ISWAP logistics network
By Nkechi Eze
In line with their unwavering commitment to ensuring national security and defending the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have continued to intensify strategic operations across various theatres. These operations are designed not only to neutralize emerging threats but also to maintain peace and uphold the rule of law in all regions of the country.
Reaffirming this commitment, the military leadership has once again emphasized its resolve to protect lives and property, ensure justice, and promote an environment where all Nigerians can live without fear. The Armed Forces continue to operate with transparency and professionalism, promising to keep the public informed of progress made in safeguarding the nation’s stability.
The Director Defence Media Operations, Defence Headquarters Major General Markus Kangye gave the update at a media briefing with journalist in Abuja on Friday 13th June, 2025.
According to Major General Kangye, across all operational theatres, AFN personnel have demonstrated exemplary bravery and tactical efficiency. He disclosed that notable highlight from the week under review includes a major breakthrough by troops of Operation DELTA SAFE, who foiled oil theft operations valued at over N146,614,380. According to Major Gen. Kangye, In the course of their activities, the troops seized 142,960 litres of stolen crude oil, 39,175 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 29,500 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
“The operation also led to the destruction of 73 crude oil cooking ovens, 32 dugout pits, 19 boats, 51 storage tanks, 28 drums, and 21 illegal refining sites. Recovered materials included outboard engines, pipes, pumping machines, drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, horses, and 12 vehicles.
“Troops also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during the week. These included automatic weapons, RPG tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), live cartridges, and other assorted ammunition.
“In the North East, under Operation HADIN KAI, the operational tempo led to scores of ISWAP and JAS terrorists men, women, and children surrendering between 6 and 11 June 2025. Simultaneously, offensive operations were carried out in Gwoza, Ngala, and Marte Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State, and Bade and Gujba LGAs of Yobe State.
“These operations resulted in the elimination of terrorists, arrest of a drug peddler, and the rescue of three kidnapped victims. Recovered items included weapons, ammunition, IEDs, motorcycles, vehicles, and other logistics, while terrorist camps were destroyed on site.
“In a separate operation, troops arrested five terrorist logistics collaborators, including a Chinese national claiming to be a miner, during a series of intelligence-led raids in Kukawa and Ngala LGAs of Borno State and Geidam LGA in Yobe State. Recovered items included a vehicle, motorcycle, mobile phones, a Chinese international passport, and N10,000 in cash.
“Responding to credible information about terrorist activities in Gwoza and Abadam LGAs of Borno, and Nangere LGA in Yobe between 6 and 9 June, troops engaged terrorists in direct confrontation, killing several and rescuing three more kidnapped individuals. Weapons and equipment were recovered, and terrorist hideouts were destroyed.
“In the North West under Operation FASAN YAMMA, troops engaged in offensive patrols across Shinkafi, Maru, Tsafe, and Zurmi LGAs of Zamfara, as well as Tangaza and Isa LGAs of Sokoto, and Dan-Wasagu in Kebbi. Several terrorists were neutralized, two kidnapped victims were rescued, and multiple weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles were seized.
Further operations were carried out in Malumfashi, Sabuwa, and Kankara LGAs of Katsina State and Tangaza, Sabon Birni, and Isa LGAs of Sokoto, as well as Kaduna North and Danko-Wasagu LGAs of Kaduna and Kebbi States. These efforts led to the elimination of terrorists and the rescue of four kidnapped victims.
“In the North Central region, under Operation SAFE HAVEN, troops operating between 5 and 10 June made contact with extremists in Riyom and Bassa LGAs of Plateau and Zangon Kataf in Kaduna, resulting in enemy casualties, the arrest of three suspects, and the rescue of one hostage. Troops also apprehended a suspected cattle rustler in Riyom LGA and handed the recovered livestock to its owner, while the suspect was transferred to the police for further investigation.
“Between 6 and 9 June, troops launched anti-kidnapping and criminality operations in Bassa, Mangu, Jos North, Riyom, Jos South, and Bokkos LGAs of Plateau State. Extremists were killed, four victims rescued, and weapons, motorcycles, and livestock recovered.
“Meanwhile, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops in Wamba LGA of Nasarawa State neutralized an extremist during offensive operations on 9 June. Recovered items included a rifle, ammunition, a magazine, and a mobile phone. Additional operations across Gwer West and Nasarawa LGAs in Benue and Nasarawa States, as well as Bali LGA in Taraba State, led to the arrest of two terrorists and the rescue of a kidnapped victim.
“Troops also arrested three criminals in Ukum and Keana LGAs of Benue and Nasarawa States, recovering arms, ammunition, a magazine, and mobile phones. From 30 May to 3 June, further operations in Baruten and Gwer East LGAs of Kwara and Benue States led to the arrest of two more criminals and the rescue of a hostage, with weapons and motorcycles recovered.
“In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE continued to maintain momentum. Troops recovered 121,035 litres of stolen crude oil, 19,650 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 7,140 litres of DPK. They also destroyed 25 crude oil cooking ovens, 32 dugout pits, 19 boats, 40 storage tanks, 28 drums, and 21 illegal refining sites. Additional seizures included engines, pipes, machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and nine vehicles. A total of 23 criminals and oil thieves were apprehended and arms recovered.
“Anti-crime operations in Okigwe and Aniocha LGAs of Imo and Delta States between 7 and 8 June led to the arrest of two criminals and the rescue of a kidnapped victim. Recovered items included weapons, mobile phones, and motorcycles. Nine suspected vandals and criminals were also arrested between 6 and 10 June in Okirika, Etche, and Akuku-Toru LGAs of Rivers State, as well as Ogbia and Aniocha North LGAs of Bayelsa and Delta.
“In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA maintained pressure on criminal elements. Offensive operations between 8 and 10 June in Aguta and Effium Ohaukwu LGAs of Anambra and Ebonyi States respectively led to the death of an extremist and the arrest of two others. Weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle were recovered. Troops also arrested eight suspected extremists between 6 and 9 June in Isuikwuato and Aguta LGAs of Abia and Anambra States, recovering weapons, a stolen vehicle, and a laptop computer.” He said.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute in their mission to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, ensure peace, and maintain stability across all regions. The tireless efforts of military personnel, operating day and night in often challenging conditions, reflect a deep sense of duty and patriotism. Their resilience and courage continue to be the backbone of Nigeria’s security architecture.
Major General Markus Kangye reiterates that the Armed Forces recognizes the indispensable role the public plays in the success of these operations. According to him, the continued cooperation, vigilance, and support of citizens are essential to tackling security challenges and building a safer, more prosperous Nigeria.
Further more, he stated that going forward, the Armed Forces are committed to transparency and open communication, ensuring that the Nigerian people are kept informed and engaged in the collective journey toward lasting peace and national unity.
