…As 373 criminals are arrested, 201 insurgents surrender, 88 arms recovered
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded major operational gains in August 2026, neutralising 324 terrorists and other criminals, arresting 373 suspects and rescuing 610 kidnapped victims across various theatres of operation.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing on the ongoing military operations of the Armed Forces.
According to him, 201 insurgents also surrendered to troops during the month, while the military recovered 88 arms and 2,077 rounds of ammunition in sustained operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
Onoja said the August figures reflected the military's continued resolve to degrade the capabilities of criminal and terrorist networks and create a secure environment for economic activities and peaceful living.
Criminal Networks Under Pressure
The Defence spokesperson said the military's gains were recorded through intensified kinetic and non-kinetic operations, improved intelligence gathering and stronger collaboration among security agencies.
He noted that the operational figures represented a significant improvement in several areas compared with the previous month, particularly in the neutralisation of terrorists and criminals, rescue of civilians and recovery of stolen crude oil.
The rising number of insurgents surrendering to troops, he added, was another indication of the increasing pressure being brought to bear on hostile elements.
Oil Theft Crackdown Intensifies
Beyond counter-terrorism operations, the Armed Forces also intensified efforts to tackle crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage.
Onoja disclosed that troops recovered 686,800 litres of stolen crude oil products during the month and destroyed 21 illegal refining sites.
The operations, he said, continued to frustrate the activities of economic saboteurs and protect critical national assets.
CDS Commends Troops, Security Partners
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, commended troops across the various theatres for their gallantry, discipline, resilience and commitment to duty.
Oluyede acknowledged the sacrifices made by military personnel in rescuing abducted citizens, neutralising terrorists and armed criminals, dismantling criminal and secessionist networks, disrupting illegal oil bunkering and protecting the nation's critical infrastructure.
He also sympathised with families who lost loved ones during the period and wished injured personnel and other victims speedy recovery.
The CDS further commended the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, local security groups and other security agencies for the operational synergy that has continued to yield results.
He also acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders and members of the public whose timely and credible information, he said, had strengthened the nation's security architecture.
Air Peace Gesture Applauded
Oluyede also expressed appreciation for the recent show of public support for Nigerian security personnel by Air Peace.
He particularly acknowledged an incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where military personnel reportedly received a spontaneous standing ovation from staff and passengers while boarding a flight.
The gesture followed a directive by Air Peace Chairman, Mr Allen Onyema, that military and police personnel be accorded priority boarding and applauded in recognition of their service and sacrifices.
The CDS described the gesture as a heartfelt expression of goodwill towards the nation's security forces and encouraged other corporate organisations, institutions and citizens to recognise and support personnel serving the country.
Military Vows to Sustain Pressure
The Armed Forces assured Nigerians that it would sustain the current operational tempo until peace and security were firmly consolidated across the country.
The military also reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, defending Nigeria's territorial integrity and safeguarding critical national assets.
Onoja urged members of the public to continue providing timely and accurate information to the nearest military formation or through the toll-free security line 193.
He assured citizens that information provided would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
