Troops Rout Terrorists, Crush Bandit Networks on Multiple Fronts

By Our Reporter

The Nigerian military has recorded sweeping victories across multiple fronts, routing terrorists in the North East and dismantling criminal networks in other regions, in what officials described as proof that bandits and insurgents are steadily losing ground.

In Gwoza, Borno State, troops of the 192 Battalion smashed an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) ambush on commuters near Uvaha village. Reinforcements from the 26 Brigade and a quick-response unit pursued the attackers, who fled in disarray towards the Mandara mountains, abandoning their plans under heavy military fire.

In Damboa, soldiers at the Forward Operating Base Azir fought off a determined ISWAP assault, pushing the terrorists back after an intense firefight that left blood trails along their retreat. Weapons seized included AK-47 rifles, explosives, and narcotics. Troops immediately reinforced the base with additional men and equipment.

At Kurnari village in Biu, gallant troops supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force crushed another ISWAP attack, capturing rocket-propelled grenade bombs, ammunition belts, and rifle magazines.

Beyond the North East, Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops maintained pressure on terrorist collaborators. Acting on DSS intelligence, soldiers arrested two suspected informants in Makarfi, Kaduna State, believed to have aided several kidnapping operations. They are now in custody for interrogation and prosecution.

Elsewhere, two men travelling from Jigawa to Lagos were intercepted with naval uniforms and ID photocopies, raising suspicions of impersonation. In Plateau, an armed suspect linked to attacks around the Enzom mining site in Barkin Ladi was arrested, while motorcycles and cattle were seized.

In Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, troops detained a suspected Iceland confraternity member caught with live 9mm ammunition allegedly meant for criminals.

Military officials said the series of operations underscore the courage and resilience of frontline troops battling under harsh conditions to protect civilians and restore order.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, reaffirmed his commitment to boosting troop morale with improved welfare and modern equipment, praising the synergy between the armed forces, security agencies, and regional partners.

“These victories prove our forces remain unrelenting in denying terrorists and bandits any safe haven,” a senior officer declared.