Military Neutralizes Terrorists, Rescues Kidnapped Victims in One Week
By: Abudu Olalekan
Surprise raids by Nigeria’s armed forces last week turned deadly for militants. From Tuesday through Monday, soldiers pushed hard in multiple regions – wiping out many attackers, capturing more than four dozen people linked to violence, then bringing home nine who had been taken by force. Bad timing for extremists – the army showed up strong.
Come Friday, Major General Michael Onoja spoke up – head of Defence Media Ops. Not idle at all, those soldiers tore apart hideouts, blocked routes used to bring supplies, also grabbed guns. Up in the North-East, during Operation Hadin Kai, they ended two militants in Gwoza, Borno, while arresting four others linked to stolen livestock. Surprise move – the surrender of two women and seven children in Dikwa, escaping because forces kept pushing hard. What unfolded next stayed quiet but clear: momentum shifted without loud claims.
Out in the North-West, things moved fast too. Not long after reports came in, troops struck hard under Operation Fansan Yamma. Four attackers fell during raids meant to break supply lines. A key dealer moving guns to outlaw leaders got arrested at a roadside stop. Weapons changed hands less often now. From a hidden room, soldiers pulled free a boy taken weeks earlier in Katsina. The dust had barely settled when news broke of the rescue.
From Zamfara came word of soldiers pushing back assaults on rural communities, burning militant camps, scattering fighters into thin cover. Elsewhere up north, joint efforts under Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace, and Whirl Stroke tightened pressure – rounding up high-value figures, grabbing 2.29 million naira believed to be ransom funds, freeing seven held against their will in Kogi.
Later that week, down in the southern zones, Operation Delta Safe stayed active. Nine people accused of kidnapping were caught across Edo and Cross River. Crude oil theft took a hit when crews closed hidden refining spots and hauled off three thousand liters of stolen fuel. Meanwhile, farther east under Operation Udo Ka, authorities detained four digging without permits. A makeshift firearm turned up during checks. Violence loomed near one village until quick response prevented bloodshed – one quiet win where nobody got hurt.
Out there, the Chief of Defence Staff tipped his hat to service members putting in long hours. Still, he reminded everyone – keep eyes open. Hunting doesn’t stop. Threats get taken apart piece by piece. What you see? That matters. Information moves fast when shared.
Truth is, the struggle isn’t done yet. Still, right at this moment, victory leans toward the military.
