The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has intensified ongoing operations in the South–South and South-East regions, leading to the arrest of 59 oil theft suspects, destruction of 32 illegal refining sites and apprehension of 54 terrorists and criminal elements linked to proscribed groups.
Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on 27 February 2026 at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja during the monthly media briefing on military operations.
According to him, under Joint Task Force South-South Operation DELTA SAFE, troops scaled up anti-oil theft operations across the Niger Delta, resulting in the arrest of 59 criminals, rescue of kidnapped hostages and recovery of 144,050 litres of crude oil and 31,601 litres of Automated Gas Oil (AGO).
He noted that the operation also led to the destruction of 32 illegal refining sites, while maritime and land components working alongside other security agencies dismantled processing equipment to protect national economic assets.
Major General Onoja further revealed that following the arrest of two suspected gunrunners on 21 February 2026 in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area and Adim in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, troops in collaboration with the Department of State Services conducted a targeted raid on 25 February at the suspects’ residence.
He said the operation yielded significant recoveries including a locally fabricated pistol, pistol components, specialised fabricating tools and a cache of assorted ammunition. During the same intelligence-driven operation, another suspect was arrested with three locally made pistols, one semi-automatic fabricated pistol, one rifle bayonet and a rifle barrel. All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and prosecution.
He added that the operation has also partnered environmental agencies to support oil spill clean-ups and promote legal livelihoods, reducing dependence on illegal activities while improving ecological and economic sustainability in the Niger Delta.
On Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, the Defence spokesman said troops intensified actions against dissident groups, including the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States.
He disclosed that the operation led to the arrest of 54 terrorists and other criminal elements as well as the rescue of kidnapped victims during the period under review.
Major General Onoja explained that during recent clearance operations on a suspected IPOB/ESN logistics hub, terrorists opened fire on troops but were overpowered by superior firepower and forced to retreat into a rugged valley. He noted that battle damage assessment revealed that scores of terrorists were neutralised while several others were wounded.
He emphasised that the operation combined kinetic military actions with non-kinetic approaches such as community engagement, medical outreaches and conflict resolution initiatives. According to him, these efforts have disrupted criminal networks, prevented attacks on civilians and security forces and contributed to a significant reduction in violent incidents across the region.
The Defence spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to sustaining coordinated operations and strengthening partnerships with relevant stakeholders to ensure peace, security and economic stability nationwide
