The Nigerian military has reported significant progress in its counterterrorism efforts, with 16,171 terrorists and their families surrendering to troops under Operation Hadin Kai within a year. This disclosure was made by the military high command on Tuesday, highlighting the achievements of ongoing operations against insurgents.
Over the past 12 months, Nigerian troops have killed 10,937 terrorists, apprehended 12,538 suspects, and rescued 7,063 hostages across multiple operations. Among the notable successes is the neutralization of over 1,000 high-profile terrorist leaders and commanders, including Dutse Mainasara Idda, Mallam Saleh Umaru, and Mohammed Amadu.
Additionally, troops recovered 8,815 weapons, 228,004 rounds of ammunition, and disrupted oil theft valued at over ₦68 billion. The military also seized 56.2 million liters of stolen crude oil, 9.7 million liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO), 95,595 liters of kerosene (DPK), and 156,527 liters of petrol (PMS).
In Katsina State, police operations led to the neutralization of 40 terrorists and the rescue of 319 kidnapped victims. Commissioner of Police Aliyu Abubakar Musa reported that 2,081 rustled animals were recovered and returned to their owners, contributing to local economic stability. He also revealed the arrest of 199 suspected armed robbers and 89 vehicle thieves, as well as the recovery of 27 stolen vehicles and motorcycles.
The police’s efforts extended to drug-related crimes, with 23 major drug dealers prosecuted, and 573 suspects were apprehended for various offenses, including criminal intimidation and breach of trust.
The military high command reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism in Nigeria, with Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, issuing a stern warning to bandit leader Bello Turji. Turji, who recently threatened to target elderly residents if a detained associate is not released, was described as a “dead man walking.”
General Buba stated, “Before him, there were other terrorists who boasted they would defeat security forces. Today, they are no longer threats. The same fate awaits Turji and other terrorist leaders.”
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The military emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and public support in the fight against terrorism. Troops remain in high spirits and are committed to stamping out terrorism, but General Buba called for active participation from citizens and stakeholders in the defense and security sectors.
“This war is not for the armed forces alone. It requires the collective effort of all Nigerians,” he said.
