November 2 Update: Military Operations Crush Terrorists, Disrupt Oil Theft
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
It was a decisive week for Nigeria’s security, as ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria have dealt significant blows on terrorists and criminals across the country, with key arrests, rescues, and substantial recoveries of weapons and resources.
In the northwestern region, troops captured a high-profile terrorist leader, Abubakar Bawa Ibrahim, also known as Habu Dogo, in Rumji Village, Illela Local Government Area of Sokoto. Dogo is a known terrorist with a history of cross-border operations that have drawn the attention of security agencies both in Nigeria and the neighbouring Niger Republic.
This capture is part of a broader effort to suppress insurgency and terror activities in the northwest.
In the southeast, security forces apprehended seven commanders and operatives of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Among those detained are Dr. Nnamdi Chukwudoze and Chigozie Ezetoha, alias “Chapet,” arrested in Ihiala, Anambra State.
Other key arrests were made in Umuahia South, Abia State, and Orsu, Imo State, signaling the military’s intensified focus on dismantling IPOB and ESN networks.
In a broader crackdown nationwide, troops reportedly neutralised 187 insurgents, detained 262 individuals, and intercepted 39 suspects linked to oil theft.
Another notable outcome in the fight against illegal oil operations was the prevention of oil theft valued at over NGN 1.25 billion.
Significant arms and ammunition were also retrieved: the recovered arsenal includes 205 assorted weapons, from rifles to pistols, alongside thousands of rounds of ammunition.
These operations according to the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, serve to weaken the fighting capacity of criminals, both in the northwest and southeast.
In the Niger Delta, troops destroyed 49 crude oil refining ovens, 11 dugout pits, and dismantled 98 illegal refining sites, confiscating over a million liters of stolen crude oil and illegal refined petroleum products.
Military personnel also secured an array of equipment used in illicit oil activities, including boats, storage tanks, and vehicles.
With the military’s persistent operations against terrorism, insurgency, and illegal oil operations, Major General Buba urge terrorists to surrender or face decisive action, stressing the determination of the Armed Forces to continue these successful missions, ensuring the safety and stability of Nigeria.
