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In October operations, 481 Terrorists were Neutralized and 741 Suspects were Apprehended, According to the DHQ.
In a notable report released by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), significant progress in military operations across Nigeria for the month of October has been outlined. During a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, shared details reflecting the concerted efforts of the Nigerian military in combating terrorism and related criminal activities.
The operations led to the elimination of 481 terrorists, apprehension of 741 suspects, and the rescue of 492 individuals from kidnapping situations. Furthermore, troops successfully recovered a substantial arsenal, including 480 weapons alongside 9,026 assorted rounds of ammunition. Among these were 263 AK47 rifles, 81 locally fabricated guns, and 76 pump-action guns, indicating a robust offensive against armed insurgents.
Maj.-Gen. Buba emphasized the military’s strategy to undermine the operational capabilities of terrorist groups through coordinated strikes on their enclaves across the nation. The Air Force has been pivotal in these endeavors, executing precise bombardments that significantly diminished the terrorists’ combat capabilities.
In the North-East, these operations notably included synchronized air and ground assaults, resulting in the neutralization of 198 terrorists and the rescue of 156 hostages. Additionally, a total of 257 former Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families surrendered during this period.
The operations extended to the North-Central and Northwest regions, where 50 violent extremists were neutralized, and 202 suspects apprehended, alongside 165 kidnap rescues. In the Northwest, 163 terrorists were neutralized, and the troops maintained a focus on establishing a secure environment conducive to agricultural and socio-economic activities.
Despite the tragic loss of Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. T.A. Lagbaja, Maj.-Gen. Buba reiterated the steadfast commitment of the armed forces to continue their mission undeterred. The military’s resolve to combat terrorism remains unwavering, inspired by the legacy and dedication of their late commander.
These achievements reflect a determined and strategic response to the complex security challenges facing Nigeria, as the military aims to restore peace and stability in affected regions.