By Ezekiel Elijah |
The Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded a major breakthrough in the ongoing war against terrorism and banditry. Between June 25 and 26, 2025, troops neutralized a notorious terrorist leader in Zamfara State, rescued five kidnapped civilians in Benue, and recovered weapons and logistics across multiple states.
Zamfara: Wanted Terror Kingpin Neutralized
Troops of Operation Fasin Yamma under 1 Brigade successfully eliminated a notorious terrorist leader, Mai Wada, in Maru Local Government Area. Wada had been on the military’s wanted list for orchestrating deadly attacks in the North West.
Benue: Hostages Rescued During Firefight
In Benue State, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke deployed at Jooter/Kyado in Ukum LGA responded to reports of kidnappers operating along the Pekia–Wukari road. After an exchange of gunfire, five hostages were rescued and a vehicle was recovered.
Borno: Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
Troops from the 82 Division Task Force Battalion, with air support from Operation Hadin Kai, recovered large quantities of arms in Gwoza LGA, including:
- 408 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition
- 1,200 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition
- Two 40mm RPG bombs
Meanwhile, troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade neutralized three terrorists in Bama LGA and destroyed their hideouts.
Kaduna & Edo: Weapons Recovered, Suspects Arrested
In Birnin Gwari, Kaduna, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle and 30 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition after intercepting gunmen. In Etsako Central, Edo State, a suspect was arrested with a pump-action shotgun and cutlasses.
Monguno: Terrorist Supply Route Disrupted
Troops in Monguno, Borno State intercepted a vehicle transporting logistics for terrorists. Items recovered include:
- 65 litres of PMS
- Rice, groundnuts, yams, and fertilizer
- Motorcycle headlights and solar lights
- 2,000 empty cement bags
- Four solar panels and a mobile phone
One suspect was arrested.
Plateau & Bayelsa: Raids Yield More Weapons
In Plateau State, troops from Operation Safe Haven used UAVs to patrol Bokkos LGA and recovered a Dane gun abandoned by fleeing criminals. In Bayelsa State, 5 Battalion arrested two suspects in Otueke, Ogbia LGA with two locally made pistols and one round of 9mm ammunition.
Military Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, praised the joint security forces for their swift and strategic actions.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains committed to eradicating terror networks and maintaining peace across the nation,” he stated.
Key Highlights of the Operation:
- 2 high-profile terrorists neutralized (Zamfara, Borno)
- 5 kidnapped victims rescued (Benue)
- Arms, ammo, and terrorist logistics recovered
- Multiple suspects arrested across regions
