The Nigerian military has reported significant successes in its security operations across the country over the past week, neutralizing 109 militants, arresting 81 suspects, and rescuing 43 hostages. These actions are part of an ongoing campaign to combat militancy and criminal activity in several regions.
In a statement released on Friday, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, also highlighted the military’s efforts against illegal oil theft. Six individuals were apprehended in connection with the theft of crude oil, preventing an estimated N618.7 million in stolen goods. The forces seized 21 firearms, including AK-47 rifles, homemade rifles, and pistols, alongside 124 rounds of ammunition.
Other notable recoveries included seven magazines, various types of ammunition, three baofeng radios, and four vehicles, six motorcycles, and four mobile phones. The military also dismantled illegal oil refining operations in the Niger Delta, destroying 10 crude oil cooking ovens, 10 dugout pits, 12 boats, and four storage tanks, while recovering a range of equipment, including 12 speedboats and three pumping machines.
In terms of oil-related crime, the troops recovered 631,709 liters of stolen crude oil, along with 3,140 liters of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil) and 2,250 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Maj.-Gen. Buba emphasized that the military is maintaining the momentum of its operational successes and will continue working towards enhancing the effectiveness of its security efforts in the coming weeks.