The Nigerian Army has arrested more than 20 suspected terrorists and criminal elements in coordinated operations carried out across the country within the last 24 hours, underscoring a renewed push to dismantle insecurity nationwide.
The arrests were made during intelligence-led offensives conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, targeting terrorist hideouts, kidnapping syndicates, and criminal networks operating in several states.
In Kogi State, troops of 12 Brigade apprehended two suspected terrorists during clearance operations in Kakuma Ileteju/Origa and Ijumu villages. Similarly, in Kaduna State, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA arrested a suspected terrorist in Afaka, who reportedly fled his camp due to internal disputes among insurgent leaders.
Further north, troops operating in Sokoto and Niger States conducted clearance missions that led to the destruction of terrorist camps, arrest of suspects, and rescue of a foreign hostage held for weeks. In Niger State alone, five suspects were apprehended, while troops also neutralised an improvised explosive device and dismantled illegal mining sites linked to criminal activities.
In the North Central and South-South regions, troops recorded additional arrests. In Edo State, five suspected kidnappers were captured during rescue operations that also freed victims and led to the recovery of arms and ammunition. In Plateau State, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE arrested nine suspects and recovered weapons, motorcycles, and communication devices.
Troops also arrested a suspected IPOB member in Delta State, while six suspected drug traffickers were apprehended in Akwa Ibom State during raids on illicit drug hubs.
Beyond arrests, the operations led to the rescue of kidnapped victims in Kwara and Edo States, as well as the dismantling of illegal oil bunkering infrastructure in Rivers State. Troops also uncovered suspected stolen crude oil concealed along the Imo River axis in Abia State.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements across all theatres of operation, noting that the recent arrests reflect the effectiveness of ongoing joint operations and the importance of public cooperation in achieving lasting security.
