AFN Bombards Terrorist Enclaves Nationwide, Neutralises Scores, Rescues Dozens in Week-Long Operations
When security pressure is sustained, criminal networks fracture.
That was the message from the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) as troops intensified coordinated ground and air operations across the country between 31 January and 8 February 2026, dealing heavy blows to terrorists, bandits and oil thieves.
In a statement on Defence operations across theatres by the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, in the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralised scores of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters across Borno and Adamawa States, dismantled detention camps capable of holding up to 300 captives, and rescued 70 victims in the Timbuktu Triangle.
Air strikes also destroyed suspected vehicle-borne IED carriers in Kaga LGA, while clearance operations led to multiple arrests and the recovery of arms, ammunition and logistics items.
The military also secured the repatriation of about 700 Nigerian refugees from Cameroon through Banki in Borno State.
Across the North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded major gains in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, Niger and parts of Kwara State.
Terrorist camps were overrun in Ifelodun LGA of Kwara, abducted victims were freed, and weapons, vehicles and livestock were recovered.
Following the deadly attack in Woro village, Kaiama LGA, the Defence Headquarters launched Operation SAVANAH SHIELD to intensify operations in Kwara and Niger States, as troops moved in to secure communities and flush out terrorist enclaves.
In the North-Central, Operations ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE recorded multiple arrests and rescues across Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi and Kwara States, disrupting extremist cells and stabilising flashpoints after recent attacks.
In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE uncovered and destroyed seven illegal refining sites, arrested oil thieves, and recovered arms in Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States.
Meanwhile, in the South-East, Operation UDO KA arrested dozens of suspects across Abia, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi States, rescuing kidnapped victims and recovering weapons.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism and urged citizens to continue supporting security efforts with timely information, reaffirming the call: “See something, hear something, say something.”
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