AFN Neutralises Terrorists, Rescues Abductees, Foils N15.6m Oil Theft Nationwide

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant operational successes across the country, neutralising terrorists, arresting criminal collaborators, rescuing abducted victims and foiling oil theft valued at over ₦15.6 million during coordinated military operations conducted between 3 and 12 December 2025.

This was disclosed in a weekly press briefing issued by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) and signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, on Monday in Abuja.

According to the DHQ, troops operating in conjunction with other security agencies sustained both kinetic and non-kinetic operations across all theatres to enhance national security, protect citizens and create a safe environment for economic activities to thrive.

The military also reassured Nigerians of its commitment to rescuing the remaining abducted students of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Agwara, Niger State, and other victims currently in captivity. The DHQ urged the public and the media to avoid speculation or the spread of unverified information that could undermine ongoing rescue efforts, while encouraging the sharing of credible intelligence that could aid operations.

In the North East, troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists across Borno and Adamawa States. Operations conducted in areas including Bama, Gwoza, Gujba, Biu, Maiduguri, Maiha and Michika led to the neutralisation of scores of terrorists.

During the period, 22 collaborators, informants and logistics suppliers were arrested, while 15 kidnapped victims were rescued. Troops also recovered significant quantities of arms and ammunition, vehicles and motorcycles, and destroyed several terrorist camps. Air reconnaissance missions conducted on 3 December provided critical intelligence that enhanced ground operations.


Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded notable successes across Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Niger and Kano States. Several terrorists were neutralised during fierce firefights, 18 suspects were apprehended and 10 kidnapped victims were rescued.

In a related development, troops, working with the Department of State Services (DSS), arrested a medical doctor who was allegedly providing treatment for wounded terrorists while transiting from Sokoto to Kwara State. An arms dealer supplying terrorists was also arrested in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.


In the North Central zone, troops under Operation ENDURING PEACE carried out offensive operations in Plateau and Kaduna States, neutralising extremists, arresting seven criminals and rescuing 14 kidnapped victims. Over ₦6.6 million was recovered from kidnappers and their logistics suppliers, alongside weapons and other materials.

Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops recorded successes across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Kwara States and the Federal Capital Territory. A total of 16 suspects were arrested in separate operations, while 10 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms, ammunition and motorcycles were also recovered.
South-South: Oil Theft Worth ₦15.6m Foiled

In the South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft activities valued at over ₦15.69 million. The operations led to the recovery of 16,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,475 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).

Troops also destroyed seven illegal refining sites, arrested 29 oil thieves and other criminals, and recovered assorted arms and ammunition. Additional operations across Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States resulted in the arrest of 39 suspects and the rescue of one kidnapped victim.
South East: Kidnapped Victims Rescued, IPOB/ESN Workshop Raided

In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA conducted targeted raids on kidnappers’ hideouts in Enugu and Benue States, as well as operations in Cross River and Ebonyi States. A suspected IPOB/ESN weapons fabrication workshop was also raided in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Fifteen kidnapped victims were rescued during the operations, while arms, ammunition and weapons fabrication tools were recovered. Eleven illegal immigrants were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service for further action.

Military Reaffirms Commitment
The Defence Headquarters commended the bravery, professionalism and resilience of troops across all theatres, stressing that the Armed Forces remain committed to denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements freedom of action nationwide.

“The successes recorded during the period underscore the unwavering determination of our troops to secure Nigeria and protect its citizens,” the DHQ stated, assuring Nigerians of sustained efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.