Armed Forces rescue victims, foil N98m oil theft
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has commended troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their gallantry, resilience, and professionalism in ongoing operations across the country, saying recent battlefield victories underscore their unwavering determination to defend every part of the nation from security threats.
Speaking at the biweekly press briefing on Thursday in Abuja, Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, lauded the courage and sacrifices of personnel especially those who have paid the ultimate price and hailed the continued dedication of those serving with honour and distinction.
Giving an update on operations conducted between October 6 and 11, General Kangye disclosed that troops rescued 30 kidnapped victims, recovered over ₦5 million from kidnappers, and seized a large cache of arms and improvised explosive device (IED) materials.
In the South-South region, he said troops foiled oil theft worth over ₦98 million and arrested 13 suspected oil thieves. They also recovered several arms and ammunition. The breakdown of recovered items includes 92,500 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,575 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Troops also discovered and destroyed 11 crude oil cooking ovens, seven dugout pits, nine boats, 14 storage tanks, and seven illegal refining sites.
He added that between October 9 and 12, troops conducted offensive operations in Ethiope East, Ughelli South, Ndokwa, Okpe, and Warri Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Delta State, as well as Ahoada East and Toru LGAs of Rivers State. During the operations, nine criminals were arrested, and weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle were recovered.
In the South-East, General Kangye said troops arrested a suspected IPOB/ESN terrorist commander known as Gentle, who had long been on the military’s wanted list, along with eight other suspects in Owerri West and Mbaitoli LGAs of Imo State, and in Izzi and Ohaukwu LGAs of Ebonyi State. Weapons, ammunition, and a vehicle were also recovered.
Additionally, a female IPOB/ESN collaborator believed to be a logistics supplier was arrested in Umunneochi LGA of Abia State on October 13. During the operation, troops found three children in her custody who were later identified as the biological children of a wanted IPOB/ESN leader, Maduabuchi Nwankwo, also known as Emergency, who is reportedly her relative.
Major General Kangye said: “I once again commend the gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering dedication and courage in the face of evolving security challenges. Our recent operational successes whether in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, maritime security, or joint internal operations are not just victories on the battlefield, but clear demonstrations of our resolve to secure every inch of our nation.”
He added that the achievements reflect coordinated efforts, intelligence-driven strategies, and the continued support of patriotic Nigerians.
“We also acknowledge the sacrifices made by our personnel, particularly those who have paid the ultimate price and those who continue to serve with honour and distinction. Their bravery inspires us to press forward until peace and stability are fully restored across all regions. Let me assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain committed, resilient, and ever-ready to uphold our constitutional mandate,” he said.
“Together, with the cooperation of all stakeholders and the support of the public, we will continue to advance towards a safer and more secure Nigeria.”
