In a decisive series of operations, troops from the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued 40 hostages, eliminated eight terrorists, and seized a cache of weapons and ammunition across the country. This significant achievement was announced in a statement shared on the Army’s social media platforms on Sunday evening.

In a notable development, the Army apprehended a notorious arms courier with a substantial supply of ammunition, delivering a substantial blow to criminal arms proliferation. Acting on credible intelligence, soldiers intercepted terrorists during an intense exchange of gunfire, resulting in the neutralization of several assailants and the recovery of 303 live rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition concealed in a bag.

The apprehended suspect and his vehicle have been taken into custody, with investigations underway to locate his accomplices. In another operation in Kaduna State, troops executed precise strikes in the forests near Danmari and Saulawa villages within the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, resulting in the elimination of one terrorist.

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Additional engagements in Ankwa village, located in the Kachia Local Government Area, led to the downfall of two more terrorists, along with the recovery of a locally made firearm, 11 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, and a motorcycle used by the assailants.

Meanwhile, in Borno State, troops encountered fleeing terrorists at Faayijiwa Fandanari village in the Magumeri Local Government Area, successfully recovering two AK-47 rifles, 61 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO), and 51 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, alongside hard drugs and various supplies. The terrorists abandoned their weapons after being overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower.

Further operations in Gwoza Local Government Area led to the neutralization of three terrorists near Ashigashiya village. Vigilant soldiers also intercepted a convoy suspected of transporting supplies to terrorists in Gubio, seizing three vehicles loaded with food and recovering N2,400.

In Kukawa Local Government Area, troops acted on intelligence to intercept terrorists relocating abducted victims from Cijin village. Upon sighting the troops, the terrorists fled, leaving behind 38 hostages—six men, eight women, and 24 children—who were safely rescued.

In Yobe State, responding to reports of terrorists extorting civilians, soldiers successfully ambushed terrorists in Sasawa village, neutralizing one and recovering an AK-47 rifle along with a motorcycle.

The Chief of Army Staff praised the troops for their bravery and unwavering commitment to restoring peace, also expressing gratitude to citizens whose reliable information has significantly contributed to these victories. The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to eliminate terrorism and protect the lives of all Nigerians.