The Nigerian military has launched a sweeping nationwide operation from September 29 to October 1, targeting terrorists, kidnappers, and organized crime syndicates across multiple states. The crackdown resulted in hostage rescues, arrests of high-profile suspects, and the destruction of criminal infrastructure.
In Borno State, troops engaged fighters from the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), killing several insurgents and recovering AK-47 rifles, grenades, motorcycles, and communication gear. Soldiers also freed hostages from insurgent camps in Mittiri, Loskuri, and Tamsu Ngamdu while dismantling enemy hideouts.
Operations spread to Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa, and Benue States, where abductees were rescued and armed herders arrested. More than 80 stolen cattle were recovered, disrupting livestock rustling networks. In Sokoto and Kano, troops repelled attacks on villages and captured a notorious terrorist leader. In Enugu, intelligence-led raids led to the arrest of two suspected members of IPOB/ESN.
Security forces also targeted illicit economies in the South. In Rivers State, illegal oil refining facilities were destroyed, while Bayelsa authorities seized narcotics and arrested five suspected traffickers. In Taraba, a convoy disguised as police was intercepted carrying over 1,000 blocks of cannabis. A similar bust in Kogi ended fatally when a courier attempted to flee with drugs, cash, and gold extracts. In Oyo, three Chinese nationals were arrested during a raid on an illegal lithium mining site.
In total, more than 10 hostages were freed, dozens of suspects arrested, and significant quantities of assault weapons, explosives, ammunition, narcotics, and mining equipment seized.
Military authorities hailed the success of the operations. “These coordinated efforts demonstrate our commitment to eradicating criminal strongholds, restoring peace, and safeguarding vital national resources,” the Army said in a statement.
The crackdown highlights Abuja’s escalating push to reinforce national security amid persistent threats from terrorism, banditry, and economic sabotage.
