Nigerian troops have intensified counter-terrorism operations nationwide, killing scores of terrorists, arresting 20 suspects and rescuing kidnap victims across several theatres of operation in the last 24 hours.
A reliable military source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the troops also recovered a large cache of arms, ammunition, explosives, motorcycles, bicycles and stolen petroleum products during the operations conducted between September 19 and 22.
According to the source, troops of Operation Hadin Kai foiled Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram attacks in Banki, Damboa and Biu areas of Borno State, killing several fighters and seizing 36 hand grenades, five rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, 700 rounds of ammunition, uniforms and logistics supplies.
He added that the troops intercepted 32 bicycles and a truckload of NPK fertiliser suspected to be intended for terrorist use.
In the North Central region, troops of Operation Enduring Peace rescued a kidnapped girl in Manchok, Kaduna State, while troops of Operation Whirl Stroke rescued another victim in Benue State, recovering weapons and ammunition in the process.
Elsewhere, the source said, troops arrested kidnappers and armed robbers in Sokoto, Taraba, Kebbi and Plateau states, while in Cross River, a suspected cultist was apprehended with a roasted human leg.
Troops also destroyed illegal oil sites in Rivers State and dismantled bunkering facilities in Cross River.
“In all, the operations led to the recovery of 10 AK-47 rifles, one FN rifle, five RPG bombs, 36 hand grenades, 39 motorcycles, 32 bicycles, explosives, chemicals and vehicles,” the source said.
The army source emphasised that the tempo of operations would be sustained to deny terrorists and criminals freedom of action, protect citizens, and boost food security in line with the Federal Government’s agenda.
