Nigerian Military Eliminates Over 100 Terrorists, Captures Key Commander and 182 Others

In a significant operation, the Nigerian military has reported the elimination of more than 100 terrorists, alongside the capture of a key commander and 182 other insurgents. This operation marks a major step in the fight against terrorism in the region.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) reported that, in various operations carried out nationwide over the past week, troops eliminated 101 terrorists and captured Usman Maisaje—an important terrorist leader—as well as 182 other individuals.

Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, shared these updates in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, outlining the Nigerian military’s activities.

Buba revealed that Maisaje, known to be a close associate of the notorious high-profile terrorist Kachalla Boka, is now collaborating with security forces by providing crucial intelligence to support future operations.

During the operations, troops retrieved a total of 71 various weapons and 1,463 rounds of ammunition. This haul included 50 AK-47 rifles, five pump-action guns, five dane guns, 16 locally fabricated rifles, and also comprised of acquiring 16 AK-47 magazines.

The seized ammunition consisted of 784 rounds of 7.62mm special, 403 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 164 rounds of 7.62x39mm, and 53 rounds of 9mm bullets, along with an additional collection of67 live cartridges . Also recovered were a Baofeng radio unit ,19 vehicles ,23 motorcycles.,35 mobile phones,.And various other pieces;Of equipment

In the North-East, as part of Operation Hadin Kai, troops successfully neutralized 54 terrorists and arrested 71 suspects. They also freed 39 hostages. Additionally, a total of 74 terrorists surrendered—this group included seven adult males, seventeen females, and forty-four children.

Buba confirmed that airstrikes targeted terrorist hideouts in Bukar Meram near the Tumbuns, resulting in the destruction of enemy infrastructure and the deaths of several combatants.

In the North-Central region, troops participating in Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke successfully eliminated 12 violent extremists, apprehended 42 suspects, and rescued 56 kidnapped victims.

Likewise, in the North-West region, forces involved in Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch eliminated 28 terrorists, captured 57 individuals, and facilitated the rescue of 44 hostages. Additionally, weapons were confiscated during these operations. Airstrikes targeted strongholds belonging to notorious terrorist leader Malam Yaddi as well as other hideouts located in Jan Birnin and Birnin Gwari within Kaduna State.

In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe forces successfully dismantled 60 illegal refining sites. They seized various items including 48 boats, 52 drums, 38 storage tanks, and 55 cooking ovens. Additional equipment confiscated included two speedboats, one tricycle, six mobile phones, and several vehicles. The troops recovered a total of 712,535 liters of stolen crude oil along with 76,800 liters of illegally refined diesel and arrested 45 individuals connected to oil theft activities.

In the South-East, as part of Operation UDO KA, security forces eliminated seven terrorists, apprehended 12 extremists, and liberated 18 hostages.

Buba reaffirmed the military’s dedication to eliminating terrorism, stating:

“The military remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate terrorists and dismantle the infrastructure supporting them. Our operations will increasingly weaken the terrorists’ military capability and effectiveness.”