Nigeria: Troops Recover N712m Stolen Crude, Kill 96 Terrorists In One Week – DHQ

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that Nigerian troops killed 96 terrorists and arrested 227 suspects during various operations across the northern parts of the country in the past week.

Among those captured was Usman Maisaje, a notorious terrorist commander and close associate of the high-profile terrorist leader Kachalla Boka.

In a statement on Friday, Major General Buba Edward, Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed that Maisaje’s arrest had yielded significant intelligence that is aiding ongoing military operations. He noted that Maisaje has been cooperating with the authorities, providing vital information to facilitate further actions against terrorist networks.

“During the week, our troops neutralised 96 terrorists, arrested 227 suspects, and rescued 157 kidnapped victims. Among those apprehended was Usman Maisaje, a notorious commander closely linked to Kachalla Boka, a wanted terrorist leader,” Buba said. “The intelligence gained from this arrest has been crucial to our ongoing efforts.”

In the southern region, specifically the Niger Delta, the military also made significant strides in combating oil theft. According to Buba, troops recovered stolen crude oil valued at ₦712 million and arrested 45 suspected oil thieves.

“Troops in the South-South region denied oil thieves from making away with crude valued at ₦712,065,450.00. We also arrested 45 individuals involved in oil theft and destroyed several illegal refining sites,” Buba added.

During the operations in the Niger Delta, the military discovered and destroyed 48 boats, 52 drums, 38 storage tanks, and 60 illegal refining sites. They also seized 712,535 litres of stolen crude oil and 76,800 litres of illegally refined diesel. Other items recovered included speedboats, mobile phones, vehicles, and a tricycle.

In addition, the troops recovered an arsenal of 71 assorted weapons and 1,463 rounds of ammunition from terrorists and criminals across the northern and southern regions. The recovered weapons included AK-47 rifles, fabricated guns, pump-action shotguns, and Dane guns.

Among the ammunition seized were 784 rounds of 7.62mm special bullets, 403 rounds of 7.62mm NATO rounds, and 164 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition. Troops also confiscated vehicles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and over ₦4 million in cash, as well as 46,000 CFA (Central African Francs).

The DHQ praised the commitment of the troops and reiterated the military’s determination to continue the fight against terrorism, oil theft, and other criminal activities across the country.