The Armed Forces of Nigeria recorded significant operational successes across the country between 3 and 9 July 2026, neutralising three terrorists, dismantling five illegal refining sites, recovering 205,680 litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products, and rescuing several kidnapped victims during coordinated operations against terrorists, kidnappers, oil thieves and other criminal elements.
The nationwide operations underscored the military’s sustained efforts to enhance national security and protect the country’s economic assets.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on Thursday announced this through its Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja. He said the operations resulted in the neutralisation of three terrorists, the rescue of several kidnapped victims, arrest of suspected terrorists, logistics suppliers and informants, as well as the recovery of arms, ammunition and other operational equipment.
In the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI rescued six abducted farmers in Borno State, destroyed ISWAP/JAS logistics bases, arrested suspected terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers, while recovering ransom money, weapons and other items.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA intensified fighting patrols across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara States, neutralising one terrorist and recovering AK-47 rifles, RPG rockets, ammunition and rustled livestock.
Under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, troops disrupted arms trafficking and terrorist logistics networks in Niger and Kwara States, arresting suspects and recovering motorcycles, fuel, cash and communication equipment.
In Plateau State, Operation ENDURING PEACE arrested suspected kidnappers and armed robbers while recovering firearms, narcotics and stolen property.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded major breakthroughs in Benue, Kogi and Taraba States, neutralising notorious terrorist kingpin Puuga, rescuing abducted victims, recovering 249 rustled cattle and arresting suspected militia members.
In the South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE dismantled five illegal refining sites in Rivers State and recovered 205,680 litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined AGO, alongside the destruction of refining ovens, reservoirs, dugout pits and siphoning equipment used by economic saboteurs.
Similarly, troops of Operation UDO KA raided criminal hideouts in the South-East, recovering weapons, fake military uniforms and destroying an illegal oil bunkering site containing 70 illegal pits and refined petroleum products.
Air operations also proved decisive, with the Air Component rescuing kidnapped victims in Niger State and conducting precision strikes against terrorists rustling over 100 cattle.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism and courage, while urging Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces with timely and credible intelligence.
