By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a bold and strategic move to combat insecurity in Nigeria, the Nigerian Armed Forces launched a week-long operation across several states, leaving 79 militants and suspected kidnappers dead. The operation, which targeted insurgents, armed bandits, and oil thieves, took place in notorious hotspots such as Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Rivers, and Bayelsa States.
Major General Ibrahim Yusuf, Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the northeast, revealed that key Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders, including Abu Kareem al-Barnawi and Malam Shuaibu Tukur, were killed in a coordinated raid near the Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad Basin. "Our troops acted on intelligence reports and neutralized these high-value targets, who had been masterminding attacks on civilian and military targets. This is a major win for Nigeria," Yusuf said.
In Zamfara State, Operation Hadarin Daji achieved remarkable success in neutralizing several bandit leaders in the Dansadau Forest. However, contrary to earlier reports, Bello Turji, one of the most notorious bandit commanders, was not killed during the operation. Brigadier General Abdulwahab Eyitayo confirmed that while Turji's camp was heavily targeted and dismantled, he managed to escape during the raid. Key members of his group, including Ali Sarki and Malam Danladi Garba, were neutralized in the operation.
In Katsina State, the military engaged heavily armed bandits in Batsari and Jibia Local Government Areas, capturing 17 suspected criminals, including Suleiman Anka, a notorious kidnapper, and recovering caches of AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and motorcycles.
Meanwhile, in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe dismantled an illegal oil bunkering syndicate operating in Rivers and Bayelsa States. Rear Admiral Olumide Olaiya, Commander of the Joint Task Force, reported that 28 individuals, including the syndicate leader, Chief Edet Johnson, were arrested in Ogbia and Bonny Island. “We also destroyed 15 illegal refineries and recovered stolen crude worth millions of naira,” Rear Admiral Olaiya noted.
The nationwide operation also led to the rescue of 67 hostages, including 21 women and 15 children, held captive in hideouts across Borno, Zamfara, and Kaduna States. The victims are currently receiving medical attention and counseling.
Residents in affected areas have expressed relief. A displaced person, Amina Lawan, from Gwoza, Borno State, said, “We can finally sleep without fear. The military has given us hope.” Similarly, community leader Ibrahim Umar in Shinkafi praised the army, saying, “These operations are a blessing to us. The military is sending a strong message to the bandits.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu applauded the armed forces for their gallantry and reiterated his administration’s commitment to eradicating insecurity. In a statement issued by his media team, the president said, “This is a major step toward restoring peace in Nigeria. We will continue to provide all necessary support to our security forces.”
While the operation has been hailed as a significant victory, human rights groups have urged caution and transparency to ensure the safety of innocent civilians. Amnesty International has called on the government to provide updates on the identities of those arrested and the conditions of the rescued hostages.
As the dust settles on this operation, the nation looks forward to sustained efforts to end the reign of terror that has plagued communities for years. For now, the military’s decisive action offers a glimmer of hope for a more secure and peaceful Nigeria.
Tags
News