Troops of Operation Fatan Yamma have disrupted an attempt by ISWAP/JAS terrorists to set up a base in Katsina State, arresting several fighters and rescuing 19 kidnapped victims.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, announced the development on Friday, June 20, saying the rescue occurred in Danmusa Local Government Area on June 14, 2025, following ongoing non-kinetic efforts.
“Following ongoing non-kinetic initiative of the troops, scores of terrorists surrendered and unconditionally released 19 victims in their captivity in Danmusa LGA of Katsina State on 14 June 2025,” Kangye said.
He added that weapons and ammunition were recovered from the surrendered terrorists.
From June 11 to 18, troops also engaged terrorists in multiple operations across Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States.
Several fighters were killed, three arrested, and three additional victims rescued. Arms, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered during the missions.
Operations also targeted economic sabotage. In the Niger Delta, troops foiled oil theft worth over ₦250 million.
Recovered items included over 221,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 28,000 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 3,000 litres of petrol. Illegal refining equipment, vehicles, and weapons were also seized.
“Additionally, they discovered and destroyed 46 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 23 boats, 44 storage tanks, 52 drums, and 16 illegal refining sites,” Kangye stated.
In the North East, troops recorded mass surrenders from ISWAP/JAS terrorists and conducted raids across Borno State.
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“Between 11 – 18 June 2025, troops, in conjunction with security agencies and hybrid forces, conducted offensive operations in Konduga, Kukawa, Gwoza, Ngala, Kala Balge, Bama and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council of Borno State,” Kangye said.
Scores of terrorists were killed, four arrested, and two victims rescued. Ammunition, explosives, and vehicles were seized. Seven logistics suppliers were also arrested.
In the North Central region, troops clashed with extremists in Plateau, Kaduna, and Benue States. Several suspects were arrested, and multiple kidnap victims freed. One notorious kidnapper, Muhammed Isah, and six others were arrested.
In the South East, troops of Operation Udoka confronted armed elements in Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu States.
“During the encounters, 5 extremists were killed, while 2 were arrested. Some weapons and ammunition, as well as vehicle were recovered from them,” Kangye said.
Other operations led to arrests of suspected vandals and criminals in Delta, Cross River, Edo, and Akwa Ibom States. Weapons, phones, cash, and stolen items were recovered.
Kangye praised the Armed Forces and urged continued public cooperation.
“The Defence Headquarters commends the bravery and professionalism of the troops involved in the various theatres of operation.
“The cooperation and support of citizens are essential in our collective efforts to overcome any obstacles that may arise,” he said.
He assured the public of continued transparency and commitment to national security.
“Your trust and confidence in our Armed Forces are deeply valued, and we assure you that we will continue to uphold the highest standards of service and professionalism in all that we do,” he added.