Nigerian Troops Intensify Crackdown On Terrorists, Oil Thieves, Criminal Gangs
In a show of relentless determination, the Nigerian Armed Forces have stepped up operations across the country, scoring major wins against terrorists, oil thieves, and criminal gangs between 30 May and 6 June 2025.
From the northeast to the Niger Delta, troops carried out both combat and intelligence-driven missions to disrupt criminal networks and restore peace to troubled areas.
In the oil-rich South-South region, operatives of Operation Delta Safe uncovered and dismantled 27 illegal refining sites, seizing over 77,000 litres of stolen crude oil and arresting 27 suspects. Dozens of storage tanks, boats, and crude oil cooking ovens were also destroyed to cripple illegal operations.
Up north, Operation Hadin Kai recorded a major breakthrough as several members of ISWAP and Boko Haram, including women and children, surrendered to troops. In coordinated raids across Borno and Yobe States, troops rescued over 50 kidnapped victims, killed several terrorists, and recovered weapons, IEDs, and motorcycles.
In the northwest, troops of Operation Fasin Yamma struck camps in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kaduna, killing insurgents and freeing abducted civilians. A female associate of a notorious terrorist leader was among several suspects nabbed during a sting operation.
Plateau and surrounding areas remained a priority for Operation Safe Haven, where security forces arrested suspected kidnappers and rescued more victims while recovering weapons and livestock from criminal enclaves.
Meanwhile, Operation Whirl Stroke in Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi and Taraba States led to the arrest of over 20 suspects, including notorious gang leaders. Troops also recovered over ₦500,000 in cash, arms, military uniforms, and other illicit materials.
Operation Udo Ka in the southeast rounded off the week with the arrest of four suspects in Ebonyi and Anambra States, with weapons and a vehicle recovered.
Military authorities described the past week’s results as a clear sign of progress in the fight against insecurity. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute in denying criminals freedom of action across all regions,” said Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations.
With national security at the forefront, the military urged Nigerians to stay vigilant and continue supporting efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the country.
