By Fatima Saka
Nigerian troops have recorded significant operational successes across the North-West, North-Central and North-East, dismantling an arms manufacturing network, neutralising terrorist elements and repelling a major insurgent attack in coordinated offensives.
In Kebbi State, troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-West under Operation FANSAN YAMMA uncovered and dismantled an illegal arms manufacturing syndicate supplying locally fabricated weapons to terrorist groups. Acting on credible intelligence, troops raided a concealed compound where five locally fabricated AK-47 rifles were recovered, while two suspected arms manufacturers and suppliers were arrested.
Military authorities described the operation as a major breakthrough in efforts to disrupt the proliferation of illicit arms and weaken terrorist logistics in the North-West. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network, including financiers and collaborators.
In Plateau State, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE intensified offensive operations against terrorist elements across multiple locations. At Gero Highground in Jos South Local Government Area, troops engaged suspected terrorists in a fierce firefight after coming under attack. Reinforcements were deployed promptly, forcing the attackers to retreat, while troops pursued and neutralised several of them during follow-up operations.
In a related development, troops intercepted a suspected gun-running attempt along the Kuba–Maijanki axis. Two suspects fled on sighting a military checkpoint, abandoning a bag containing three locally fabricated rifles. The motorcycle rider conveying them was arrested and is currently in custody for further investigation.
Further operations in the Rafin Bauna and Gero mountainous areas led to the neutralisation of five terrorists, some of whom were reportedly on the military’s wanted list for orchestrating attacks in Jos South and Bassa Local Government Areas. Troops also foiled a night infiltration attempt at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, killing one attacker and recovering arms and ammunition. Security presence has since been reinforced in the area.
In Borno State, troops of Operation HADIN KAI successfully repelled a coordinated night attack by ISWAP terrorists on a Forward Operating Base in Mairari, Guzamala Local Government Area. The terrorists launched the attack late at night in a bid to overrun the base and disrupt ongoing resettlement efforts in the community.
Troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the insurgents to retreat after inflicting heavy casualties. Weapons recovered from the scene include AK-47 rifles, loaded magazines and rocket-propelled gun tubes, while surveillance confirmed that fleeing terrorists evacuated their dead and wounded.
However, the military recorded casualties, with two soldiers and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force killed during the encounter, while some equipment was damaged. Reinforcement troops later detected and safely detonated improvised explosive devices planted along withdrawal routes, further thwarting the attackers.
The attempted assault is believed to be aimed at disrupting the recent resettlement of over 950 households in Mairari. No civilian casualties were recorded.
Military authorities across the theatres commended the courage, professionalism and synergy among troops and other security agencies, reaffirming their commitment to sustained operations to deny terrorists freedom of action and restore lasting peace.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible intelligence to support ongoing security efforts nationwide.
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