Coordinated security operations by the Nigerian Army across several parts of the country have resulted in the deaths of 18 suspected terrorists and the arrest of 37 individuals linked to criminal activities.

The operations, carried out within the last 24 hours, also led to the rescue of nine kidnapped victims and the recovery of weapons, ammunition and other logistics believed to be used by armed groups.

Follow-up Operations in the North-East

In the North-East theatre under Operation HADIN KAI, troops conducting follow-up operations after a recent attack on a military location in Goniri, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State discovered the bodies of nine suspected terrorists along withdrawal routes.

Items recovered during the operation included an AK-47 rifle, two 60mm mortar bombs, two rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs and belts of assorted ammunition.

In a separate mission in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State, troops working alongside local hunters carried out a cordon-and-search operation that led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle.

Ambush Repelled in Cross River

Troops responding to a distress call during a communal disturbance in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State came under attack from armed men while returning from the operation.

The soldiers repelled the ambush, killing four gunmen and restoring calm in the area.

Similarly, troops conducting ambush operations in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State engaged insurgents, killing two while forcing others to retreat.

Kidnap Syndicates Targeted

Operations targeting kidnapping networks also recorded successes in other regions.

In Edo State, troops killed three suspected kidnappers along the Ijon River axis of Etsako West Local Government Area. Communication devices believed to belong to the suspects were recovered during the operation.

Meanwhile, troops deployed under Operation Whirl Stroke in Benue State rescued five kidnapped victims and arrested a suspected collaborator during a patrol operation.

Arrests Across Several States

Security operations across the country also led to several arrests and the disruption of suspected logistics networks.

In Sokoto State, troops arrested 15 suspects and recovered nine motorcycles along with several jerrycans of fuel believed to be meant for supplying armed groups.

Four suspects were arrested during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts in Kaduna State.

In Delta State, troops apprehended four suspected armed robbers and six suspected drug peddlers.

Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, security forces intercepted a weapons smuggling attempt, recovering an AK-47 rifle and ammunition while arresting two suspected recipients.

The operations are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to disrupt terrorist networks and tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.