Troops kill 102 terrorists, rescue 393 kidnap victims in July – DHQ

By Anan Geolengs

The Armed Forces of Nigeria, AFN, said it neutralised over 102 terrorists and criminals in July, while 345 others were arrested and 393 kidnap victims rescued across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja while giving update on military operations for the month of July.

Onoja said the operational record for July stands as compelling testimony to the sustained resolve of the AFN to ensure a secure environment for socio-economic stability and peace to thrive.

He said that 57 insurgents surrendered to troops during the period, while 59 arms and 1,811 rounds of ammunition were recovered.

“Similarly, the overall successes recorded in the fight against crude oil theft have continued to frustrate the activities of economic saboteurs. On the whole, the AFN has significantly degraded the capabilities of criminal and terrorist elements across the nation,” he said.

Onoja said Gen. Oluyede commended the professionalism of troops across all theatres of operation for the successes recorded during the month.

He said the CDS specially commended troops of the AFN and other security agencies for the synergy that culminated in the safe rescue of 44 pupils and teachers who were abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

According to him, the rescue was achieved without any concession to the abductors and no quarter shall be given to perpetrators of such heinous crime going forward.

“The CDS extends heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the course of that woeful incident, as well as to the loved ones of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice during the period,” he added.

Onoja said the CDS reaffirmed the AFN’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property nationwide and its resolve to ensure that terrorism, kidnapping, secessionist agitation and other forms of criminality are purged from society.

He said the Defence Headquarters appreciated the media for its balanced and responsible reportage of military operations, and commended other security agencies and local vigilante groups for their sustained collaboration with troops.

“The CDS urges all Nigerians that national security is a shared civic responsibility. The general public is encouraged to continue providing timely and accurate information to the nearest military formation or through the toll-free line 193. You are assured that all information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

“God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”