Troops Neutralize 216 Terrorists, Recover 101, 443 Litres Of Stolen Crude
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded significant operational successes across all theatres in April 2026, neutralizing a total of 216 terrorists and recovering 101,443 litres of petroleum products in sustained, coordinated offensives nationwide.
During a press briefing with Defence correspondents at the Defence Headquarters on Thursday, Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, said the operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders, also led to the arrest of 284 terrorists, rescue of 188 kidnapped victims and the dismantling of criminal networks.
In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI maintained intense pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements, neutralizing 136 fighters, arresting suspects, and rescuing abducted civilians. Key operations included successful ambushes, clearance of terrorist camps in Borno and Yobe States, and the repulsion of coordinated attacks, notably in Kukareta, where multiple weapons were recovered.
Similarly, Operation FANSAN YAMMA in the North West accounted for 20 terrorists neutralized, alongside multiple rescue missions, including the high-profile rescue of abducted worshippers in Kaduna State. Troops also dismantled terrorist enclaves and intercepted suspects transporting improvised explosive device (IED) materials.
In the North Central region, Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE, and WHIRL STROKE collectively neutralized 53 terrorists, disrupted kidnapping syndicates, and rescued dozens of victims across Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa States. Notable achievements included the destruction of weapons manufacturing sites and the recovery of ransom returned to victims’ families.
Operations in the South-South under DELTA SAFE led to the recovery of 101,443 litres of crude oil and refined petroleum products, alongside the dismantling of illegal refining sites and the rescue of kidnapped civilians in Delta and Edo States. Troops also neutralized criminal elements and recovered arms during targeted operations.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA recorded the neutralization of 3 terrorists, arrests of key IPOB/ESN operatives, and the destruction of strategic camps, including a major enclave in Enugu State. Several weapons, IEDs, and logistics infrastructure were recovered or destroyed, further degrading the group’s operational capacity.
The AFN described the April operations as among the most decisive in recent months, reaffirming its commitment to sustaining offensive actions, strengthening civil-military cooperation, and ensuring the restoration of peace and security across the country.
