By Martin Odiete, Abuja
In continuation of the fight against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and their likes in the country, the Nigeria Defence Headquarters, DHQ has revealed that troops have dealt a significant blow to oil theft syndicates in a series of high-impact military operations.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence announced the neutralization of key insurgent leaders and the interception of stolen crude oil worth over N1.9 billion.
“Our troops have made substantial progress in neutralizing key insurgent leaders and disrupting criminal networks,” Kangye stated. “The capture of Nkwachi Eze, also known as Onowu, represents a major victory for our forces and a clear message to all criminal elements that we will not relent in our efforts to restore peace.”
Similarly, Buhari Umar, a suspected gunrunner and leader of a kidnapping syndicate operating across Gombe, Bauchi, Plateau, and Kaduna States, was apprehended. “Buhari Umar has been on our radar for a long time,” Kangye noted. “His arrest underscores our commitment to dismantling criminal networks that threaten the security of our citizens.”
Kangye further disclosed that Operation DELTA SAFE intercepted 1,009,733 litres of stolen crude oil and other petroleum products valued at approximately N1.93 billion. “The operation also led to the destruction of 351 crude oil cooking ovens, 418 dugout pits, and 95 illegal refining sites,” he said. “Additionally, troops recovered a cache of arms, vehicles, and other operational equipment used by the criminal networks.”
The operations also led to the rescue of 173 kidnapped victims and the apprehension of 430 criminal elements, while 204 terrorists and their families surrendered to the authorities. “Our operations are not limited to arrests and recoveries,” Kangye emphasized. “We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens and stabilizing affected regions.”
In Borno and Yobe States, Operation HADIN KAI disrupted insurgent supply chains, arresting 29 logistics suppliers who admitted to supplying fuel and food to terrorists. “These arrests are significant as they cut off critical support to terrorist factions,” Kangye stated.
Operation WHIRL STROKE also recorded gains in Taraba, Adamawa, Niger, and Kogi States, neutralizing violent extremists and rescuing kidnapped victims in multiple encounters. “We will continue to intensify these operations until the regions are completely secure,” Kangye asserted.
Meanwhile, Operation SAFE HAVEN in Plateau and Kaduna States led to the arrest of extremist collaborators and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and motorcycles. Operation UDO KA, focusing on the South East, dismantled terrorist camps in Imo, Anambra, and Enugu States, seizing weapons and explosive devices.
“Our forces are operating under challenging conditions, but their commitment to the nation remains unwavering,” Kangye concluded. “We urge all citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.”
The DDMO assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would continue to provide timely updates on operational progress while adhering to human rights and global best practices.