The Nigerian Army has announced major breakthroughs in its sustained counterterrorism and anti-crime operations across the country, recording the neutralization of nine terrorists, arrest of eight criminal suspects, rescue of 37 kidnapped victims, and recovery of several weapons and logistics items between October 2 and 6, 2025.

In the North East, troops of 151 Task Force Battalion ambushed ISWAP/JAS fighters at Dipchari in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, killing five terrorists after a fierce firefight. Similarly, troops of 148 Battalion operating around Iyemero community along the Ekiti–Kogi border neutralized two insurgents and recovered two new AK-47 rifles. In another encounter, troops of 3 Battalion repelled a large-scale assault, killing one terrorist and forcing several others to flee with gunshot wounds.

Across Borno, Katsina, Imo, and Plateau States, troops apprehended eight suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and arms smuggling. The arrests included an ISWAP logistics courier in Monguno, a suspected collaborator in Kukawa, a wanted IPOB/ESN leader in Imo, and a gunrunner in Plateau. Recovered items included a dane gun, a fabricated pistol, three AK-47 magazines, 12 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 93 belted rounds of 7.62mm NATO, and several motorcycles used for criminal activities.

Troops also rescued 37 kidnap victims in ongoing clearance operations across Kaduna, Taraba, Plateau, Delta, and Kebbi States. In Sakaba, Kebbi State, 28 locals—including a pregnant woman who gave birth during the rescue—were freed from terrorist captivity. Separate rescue missions in Kaduna and Delta States freed seven civilians, while troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau rescued two more victims in Mangu Local Government Area.

Meanwhile, intensified anti-smuggling and anti-oil theft operations in the South South led to the discovery and destruction of illegal refining sites in Imo State by troops of 34 Artillery Brigade in conjunction with Operation DELTA SAFE, where over 20,000 litres of stolen crude and refined products were destroyed.

The Nigerian Army commended the cooperation among sister services, security agencies, and local vigilantes for their role in the ongoing nationwide operations. It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safer environment that supports economic stability and food security in line with the Federal Government’s vision.