Nigerian troops have intensified their crackdown on criminal elements across the country, killing two terror suspects, arresting 32 others, and rescuing 13 kidnap victims in a series of coordinated operations. The operations, carried out in different theatres of the North, were part of ongoing military efforts to restore peace and dismantle terrorist and bandit networks threatening security in the region.
According to a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters, the troops acted on credible intelligence that led them to several hideouts of criminal gangs. During the encounters, armed suspects engaged the soldiers in fierce gun battles, but two of the terrorists were neutralized while others fled with gunshot wounds. Weapons, ammunition, and other incriminating materials were recovered at the scenes.
The statement further revealed that 32 suspects were apprehended during mop-up operations that followed the engagements. Those arrested are currently undergoing profiling and interrogation to determine their level of involvement in terrorism, banditry, and related crimes. The military assured that suspects found culpable will be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution.
In the course of the operations, troops also rescued 13 individuals who had been held hostage by the criminal groups. The victims, including women and children, were reportedly kidnapped from nearby communities and kept in captivity pending ransom payments. They have since been reunited with their families after receiving medical attention and psychological support.
Military authorities commended the resilience of the troops and reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the offensive against terrorist cells, bandits, and other criminal syndicates. The statement urged members of the public to continue providing timely and accurate information that could aid security agencies in dismantling criminal enclaves.
Security analysts have noted that the latest operation reflects the military’s growing reliance on intelligence-driven strategies, which have helped in dislodging insurgents and limiting their ability to regroup. They, however, cautioned that the challenge remains extensive, given the vast terrain and mobility of armed groups across several northern states.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its resolve to maintain pressure on terrorists and criminal gangs until peace is fully restored. It assured Nigerians that the armed forces will not relent in protecting lives and property, while also pledging to intensify collaboration with local communities and other security agencies in the fight against insecurity.
