The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant victories in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality, rescuing more than 40 kidnapped victims and arresting over 20 suspected terrorists, collaborators and criminal elements during coordinated military operations conducted across the country within one week.

The operations, carried out between July 10 and July 16, also led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, the disruption of criminal networks and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, vehicles and other operational equipment used by criminal groups.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, highlighting a series of successes recorded by troops deployed in various theatres of operation nationwide.

According to him, the achievements were made possible through the combined efforts of troops under Operations Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace, Whirl Stroke, Delta Safe and UDO KA, working closely with other security agencies and local vigilante groups.

Terrorists Surrender, Collaborators Arrested in North-East

Onoja said troops of Operation Hadin Kai maintained sustained pressure on Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the North-East, resulting in the surrender of 10 family members linked to terrorist groups.

He added that troops arrested six suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators believed to be supporting terrorist activities and rescued 13 abducted persons from captivity.

The military also thwarted infiltration attempts around Maiduguri and successfully neutralised terrorists during ambush operations in parts of Borno State.

In a significant breakthrough, security operatives arrested a suspected foreign spy in Mallam Fatori, a border community in Borno, as part of efforts to strengthen intelligence gathering and prevent external support for terrorist groups.

Troops Rescue Victims, Repel Attacks in North-West

In the North-West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma intensified operations against armed groups terrorising communities in Zamfara and Kebbi states.

The operations led to the arrest of several terrorist collaborators, the killing of three terrorists and the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims.

The military also recovered vehicles and other valuable items abandoned by fleeing terrorists while successfully repelling attacks targeted at vulnerable communities.

Forest Guards, Troops Record Gains in North-Central

Onoja disclosed that troops under Operation Savannah Shield rescued four kidnapped victims during separate operations in Niger and Kwara states.

He said forest guards participating in the operations neutralised a suspected terrorist and recovered an AK-47 rifle, magazines and a Dane gun in Kwara State.

Similarly, troops of Operation Enduring Peace intercepted suspected arms traffickers in Kaduna State and arrested wanted criminal suspects in Plateau State.

The operation also led to the rescue of four kidnap victims after troops foiled attacks along major highways, preventing further violence and disruption of movement.

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Kogi School Attack Victims Regain Freedom

In another major success, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke arrested an ammunition courier transporting 60 rounds of ammunition in Nasarawa State and apprehended four suspected terrorist collaborators in Kogi State.

The Defence spokesman revealed that troops also rescued a school principal, a National Examinations Council (NECO) official and two students who were abducted during an attack on an examination centre in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

According to him, sustained military pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee, paving the way for their safe rescue.

Illegal Refineries Destroyed, Weapons Recovered

In the Niger Delta region, troops of Operation Delta Safe continued their crackdown on crude oil theft and economic sabotage.

The operation resulted in the discovery and destruction of illegal refining sites in Rivers State, where stolen crude oil and refining equipment were recovered.

Onoja added that troops also neutralised two suspected kidnappers in Edo State, recovered three rifles and ammunition and rescued three abducted persons.

Security Forces Tighten Grip in South-East

In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA intensified operations against criminal elements and separatist agitators.

The troops arrested suspected members of a proscribed secessionist group, recovered weapons and ammunition and rescued two abductees along the busy Aba–Port Harcourt Expressway.

Military authorities described the operations as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace, security and freedom of movement across the region.

CDS Commends Troops, Hails Rescue of Oyo Pupils

Reacting to the operational successes, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism, courage and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.

He also praised the growing intelligence-driven collaboration among military personnel, security agencies and local stakeholders, which he said has continued to yield positive results.

The CDS particularly applauded the successful rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, noting that the victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity without any concession being made to their abductors.

Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain ongoing operations across all regions until lasting peace, security and stability are fully restored.

He also urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remains critical to defeating terrorism, kidnapping and other security threats confronting the country.