- Significant Blow to Terrorism in Northern Nigeria
Jigawa State, Nigeria – The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the successful elimination of a notorious terrorist leader known as Mai Hijabi during a recent military operation in Jigawa State. This operation is part of the DHQ’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the operational capabilities of terrorist groups in Northern Nigeria.
- Successful Military Operations Yield High Impact
During a press briefing, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, detailed the achievements of military troops over the past week. He reported that a total of **165 terrorists were neutralized**, and **238 suspects were arrested** as part of the intensified anti-terrorism operations.
Buba stated, “Our operations have significantly degraded the combat capacity of these terror groups and their leadership. The elimination of Mai Hijabi is a testament to our troops’ effectiveness and commitment to restoring peace in the region.”
- Rescue and Arrests: A Week of Action
In addition to targeting terrorists, the military operations also resulted in the rescue of **188 kidnapped victims**. The DHQ emphasized the importance of these operations in combating the rising threat of terrorism and kidnapping across the Northern region.
- Combating Oil Theft in the Niger Delta
The military’s efforts extended beyond counter-terrorism, as troops in the Niger Delta area made significant strides against oil theft. Buba reported the arrest of **35 suspected oil thieves** and the denial of oil theft valued at an estimated **₦688,125,150**. The operations led to the discovery and destruction of **2 dugout pits**, **58 boats**, and **39 storage tanks**, as well as the seizure of **789,200 litres of stolen crude oil** and **64,950 litres of illegally refined AGO**.
- Recovery of Weapons and Ammunition
The military also recovered a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition during the operations. The breakdown includes:
– **81 AK47 rifles**
– **23 fabricated rifles**
– **27 Dane guns**
– **13 pump-action guns**
– **5 locally made pistols**
– **3 revolver pistols**
– **30 AK47 magazines**
– **1,561 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo**
– **278 rounds of 7.62mm NATO**
– **70 rounds of 50mm ammo**
– **72 rounds of 9mm ammo**
– **87 live cartridges**
Additionally, troops seized **19 vehicles**, **21 motorcycles**, **45 mobile phones**, and **₦64,100 in cash**, among other items.
The Defence Headquarters remains committed to its mission of neutralizing threats posed by terrorism and organized crime in Nigeria. The recent operations signify a crucial step toward restoring security and stability in the Northern region and beyond.