The Nigerian Army has arrested over 20 suspected terrorists and criminals in a series of coordinated operations carried out across multiple states within 24 hours, intensifying its ongoing fight against insecurity.

Scope of the operations

According to an operational report released at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday, the arrests followed intelligence-led offensives conducted with support from other security agencies and local vigilantes.

The operations targeted terrorist hideouts, kidnapping syndicates and criminal networks operating across different parts of the country.

Arrests and recoveries across states

In Kogi State, troops of 12 Brigade, working with police and vigilantes, arrested two suspected terrorists during raids in Kakuma Ileteju/Origa and Ijumu communities, recovering motorcycles and chainsaw machines.

In Kaduna State, a suspected terrorist was apprehended in Afaka, where he reportedly confessed to fleeing a camp due to internal clashes among members.

Troops in Sokoto State also cleared several villages in Tangaza LGA, destroying a terrorist camp and recovering military-style clothing.

Rescue operations and breakthroughs

The Army disclosed that a Nigerien national held captive for over three weeks was rescued, highlighting the cross-border dimension of criminal activities.

In Kwara State, troops responded to a distress call, forcing kidnappers to abandon three victims, while in Edo State, security forces rescued victims, arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered an AK-47 rifle with ammunition.

Further operations in Delta led to the arrest of a suspected IPOB member at Umunede Junction.

Crackdown on drugs and illegal activities

In Akwa Ibom State, troops raided drug hideouts, arresting six suspects and recovering various hard drugs, including cannabis, methamphetamine, codeine and tramadol, along with cash.

In Rivers State, illegal bunkering sites were dismantled, with equipment and petroleum products seized.

Plateau State operations led to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, motorcycles and mobile phones, while troops in Abia uncovered suspected stolen crude oil along the Imo River axis.

Ongoing security push

The Army said the operations form part of a broader strategy to disrupt criminal networks, dismantle terrorist infrastructure and improve security across the country.