Troops Arrest 147 Suspects, Rescue 39 Kidnap Victims Nationwide

Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters says troops across the country arrested 147 suspected terrorists and criminals, while rescuing 39 kidnap victims in the past week. The announcement was made by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, during a Thursday briefing.

Between 15 and 22 September, troops in the North East apprehended 26 terrorist collaborators, freed three hostages, and seized logistics including vehicles, motorcycles and materials for improvised explosives. In the North Central region, forces rescued 16 victims and captured 80 suspects, including two wanted leaders.

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Operations in the South South led to the arrest of 19 suspected oil thieves and nine others, with nine hostages freed. Troops also destroyed 16 illegal refining sites, crude oil pits, storage tanks, and boats, preventing oil theft worth nearly ₦20 million. The military says operations remain ongoing nationwide.