The Nigerian troops have neutralized over 620 Terrorists, over 1,051 terrorists including their logistic suppliers and informants arrested, while over 560 hostages were rescued in May 2024 from different geo-political zones of the country.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba made this known while briefing Journalists on ongoing military operations in different parts of the country in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
General Buba said that “troops also recovered 707 assorted weapons, 16,487 assorted ammunition and denied the oil theft of an estimated sum over #700 Million (N705, 836,036.00) only”.
According to him, the breakdown for May 2024 includes 411 AK47 rifles, 234 locally fabricated guns, 43 pump action guns, 231 Dane guns, 10,782 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 4,310 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 1,623 rounds 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 1,023 rounds of 511 rounds of 9mm and 2,100 live cartridges.
Others are 4,871,470 litres of stolen crude oil, 931,416 litres of illegally refined AGO and 4,480 litres of PMS amongst other items.
He noted that the joint operational environment coupled with synergy with other security and intelligence agencies greatly assisted in the optimal performance of troops in the conduct of operations.
According to him, the unprovoked killings of 17 personnel in Okuama in Delta State, coupled with the recent assault of unarmed personnel in Banex Plaza in Abuja is worrisome and leaves much to be desired.
“These occurrences are unhealthy for our national security, counterproductive and amount to self-sabotage.
“Surely, there is no way to treat any human, certainly not a military personnel that places himself in harm’s way to protect citizens or to safeguard the nation. The military has demonstrated a high sense of discipline and professionalism in the face of untoward attacks. Our professionalism must not be mistaken for weakness”, he added.
He noted that they needed the support of people to win the war and they also hope that the people would equally realize that they need the military to win the war to guarantee their safety.
“Accordingly, it goes without saying that this must not repeat itself as it jeopardizes our common interest.
“If troops err, report them and the military justice system will address the matter,” the Director said.
He added that citizens must realize that they also have a responsibility by their actions and utterances to support troops to keep the morale and fighting spirit.
“The troops would continue to fight until the terrorists are defeated on the battlefield and help the nation flourish again.”
A minute of silence was observed for officers and others that lost their lives in defending their father land.
