DHQ: Troops Kill over 102 Terrorists, Criminals, Apprehend 345 in July

Nigerian Armed Forces neutralized more than 102 terrorists and criminal elements across various operations in July, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced. This intensified effort to combat insecurity nationwide also saw the apprehension of 345 individuals and the rescue of 393 kidnapped civilians.

Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, detailed the monthly operational briefing, stating that troops arrested 345 terrorists and criminals, rescued 393 kidnapped civilians, and recovered 59 arms along with 1,118 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, 57 insurgents surrendered to troops during the period. Operations in the North-East resulted in the neutralization of 54 fighters and the arrest of 102 terrorists, while the North-West saw 33 fighters neutralized and 66 terrorists arrested. The North-Central region reported 15 terrorists killed and 148 suspects arrested.

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Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces neutralised over 102 terrorists and criminal elements across various theatres of operation in July, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and restore peace across the country.

In parallel, the federal government is set to bolster security in the southeast by establishing a shared regional security database and deploying advanced technology, including drones and CCTV, to combat rising crime rates. This initiative comes as concerns mount over politically motivated violence resurfacing ahead of the 2027 general election, with reports alleging the recruitment and arming of groups by political actors. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of cross-border collaboration to effectively address kidnapping and enforce sit-at-home orders, which have disrupted economic activities.

Beyond counter-terrorism, troops under Operation Delta Safe conducted sustained anti-kidnapping and economic protection operations in Akwa Ibom, Edo, and Rivers States. These operations led to the dismantling of 18 illegal refining sites and the recovery of over 250,500 liters of petroleum products, including the disruption of a major illegal refining complex in Rivers State.

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This was reinforced on 5 and 7 July with the deactivation of two other illegal refining sites within the Orashi National Forest.