Troops Tighten Grip on Criminal Networks, Arrest Key Suspects, Recover Weapons Nationwide
The Nigerian Army has intensified its nationwide operations against terrorists, kidnappers, and criminal gangs, recording major successes between 17 and 19 September 2025.
In a key breakthrough, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) arrested Saauwan Wuaiyolna, a high-profile member of the wanted gang led by notorious criminal Akiki Utivi (aka Full Fire), at Takum Junction in Wukari LGA of Benue State. A motorcycle and other exhibits were recovered during the operation.
In Enugu State, troops of 103 Battalion, working with the Police and Neighborhood Watch, arrested wanted suspect Chukwuepre Gideon in Mmaku community, Awgu LGA, seizing a motorcycle, laptop, cartridges, flags, batteries, and inverter casings.
Counter-terrorism operations in the North-East also yielded gains. In Borno State, troops of 19 Battalion, supported by Civilian JTF, neutralized an ISWAP/JAS terrorist in Damboa LGA, rescuing two kidnapped victims. In Bama LGA, five ISWAP/JAS family members—including a woman and four children—surrendered to troops of 202 Battalion, while troops of 222 Battalion ambushed and killed two terrorists in Konduga LGA.
Elsewhere, troops neutralized armed criminals and recovered weapons across Zamfara, Kaduna, Abuja, Delta, Imo, Plateau, and Cross River States. Highlights include the recovery of five AK-47 rifles, 15 fabricated rifles, a pump-action gun, magazines, ammunition, and motorcycles. In anti-oil theft operations, troops seized over 6,500 litres of illegally refined petroleum products and dismantled multiple illegal refining sites in Imo and Delta States.
Overall, within the three-day operation, troops arrested over 30 suspects, neutralized at least 13 terrorists and criminals, rescued three kidnapped victims, and recovered a large cache of weapons and illegal items.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations to dismantle terror networks, curb oil theft, and create a safer environment to support national food security.
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