The Armed Forces of Nigeria have foiled oil theft operations valued at over ₦83.7 million, dismantled dozens of illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta, and arrested more than 100 suspects linked to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

The weekly report released by Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlights coordinated and strategic operations against criminal elements from the Northeast to the Niger Delta, yielding substantial results in both human and material recoveries.

According to the report, in the South-South region, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against crude oil theft.

The military intercepted and destroyed illegal refining facilities responsible for the theft of 76,610 litres of crude oil and 8,425 litres of illegally refined AGO, with the total estimated value exceeding ₦83.7 million.

Troops also uncovered and demolished 11 crude oil cooking ovens, 32 dugout pits, 14 storage tanks, 10 illegal refining sites, and recovered several equipment including boats, motorcycles, tricycles, drilling machines, and vehicles. No fewer than 46 suspects were arrested, and a cache of weapons and ammunition was also seized.

It also noted that in a separate operation in Bayelsa State, troops arrested 15 criminals, while in Rivers State, they responded to an armed attack on security personnel by suspected cultists in Ahoada East Local Government Area, arresting two and recovering weapons.

In Delta State, a suspect identified as Frank May was arrested in possession of firearms in Warri South LGA, while in the Northeast, troops under Operation HADIN KAI achieved critical milestones as intensified operations compelled dozens of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, including men, women, and children, to surrender across Balge, Gwoza, Kukawa, Damboa, Konduga, and Chibok Local Government Areas of Borno State.

“In a series of offensives between 20 and 26 June, security forces eliminated several terrorists, rescued five kidnapped victims, and destroyed insurgents’ hideouts and logistics.

“Additionally, 11 collaborators and logistics suppliers were arrested across Borno and Yobe States, with items including motorcycles, vehicles, and mobile phones recovered,” the report added.

The military also reported that troops under Operation FASAN YAMMA, operating in the Northwest, engaged terrorists in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Niger States, killing several insurgents and recovering weapons, unexploded ordnance, and stolen property.

“A total of seven terrorists were arrested between 20 and 26 June in locations such as Faskari, Malumfashi (Katsina), and Bungudu (Zamfara), following actionable intelligence.

“In the North Central region, Operation SAFE HAVEN troops carried out counter-kidnapping and anti-crime missions in Plateau and Kaduna States, resulting in the arrest of 33 extremists and the rescue of five hostages. Operations in Jos South, Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Kauru also led to the recovery of arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and rustled livestock,” it stated.

The military further said that raids in Riyom, Mangu, and Karu LGAs led to the arrest of additional suspects and recovery of more weapons.

“Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE, covering Taraba, Nasarawa, Benue, and Kogi States, engaged extremists in a number of confrontations. Between 20 and 26 June, troops killed several insurgents, arrested 23 suspects, and rescued 17 kidnapped victims across the region. Arms, vehicles, and communication equipment were recovered.

“Notably, operations in Esan South East (Edo) and Keffi (Nasarawa) dismantled known criminal networks, demonstrating expanded coverage of the task force.

“In the Southeast, troops of Operation UDO KA conducted an offensive on 18 June in Okigwe LGA of Imo State, raiding a terrorist camp and arresting an injured insurgent receiving medical treatment. Recovered items included weapons, ammunition, IED-making materials, and hospital equipment. The camp was subsequently destroyed,” the military reported.

Troops also arrested three terrorist accomplices in Ihiala LGA of Anambra, while in Abia State, a car theft suspect was apprehended during a counter-crime patrol in Osisioma LGA.

The Defence Headquarters reiterated the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to preserving Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens from threats to national security.

It praised the dedication and professionalism of the troops and urged Nigerians to support military efforts by providing timely and credible information.

“Together, we will achieve lasting peace and stability across the country,” it said.

The Defence Headquarters also called on all citizens to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies as the military sustains momentum in the fight against criminality.