Troops maintain an aggressive pace against terrorists nationwide, neutralizing scores

Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) deployed in different theaters of operation across the country have maintained an aggressive posture against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and gross thefts.

During the week under review, troops eliminated dozens of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, arrested many and rescued many kidnapped victims.

Director of Defense Media Operations Major General Michael Onoja made the position known on Friday while providing an update on gains recorded in ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations between July 17 and 23.

He assured the troops’ aggressive stance against terrorists and other enemies of the state in theaters of operation until “normality is fully restored.”

He said that during the period under review, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) supported internal security and counter-terrorism operations across the country.

“During that period, troops conducted offensive operations to neutralize/arrest terrorists, kidnappers and their collaborators, as well as rescue kidnapped and abducted victims.

“The operations also led to the recovery of weapons, various types of ammunition and logistical items intended for use by insurgents, kidnappers, oil thieves and other criminal elements.

“The AFN has also ensured the security of strategic national corridors and secured interstate road and rail networks for the continued safety of movement of population, goods and services.

“The AFN continues to appeal to members of the public to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies and support ongoing efforts to rid communities of criminal elements.

“Troops remain resolute and will maintain the tempo of operations until normalcy is fully restored across the country,” General Onoja promised.

According to him, the successes recorded in operational theaters during the period under review underline the professionalism of AFN troops in conducting internal security and counter-terrorism operations at the national level.

“The AFN wishes to reassure Nigerians of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property, degrading the capabilities of terrorists, kidnappers, militias and other criminal elements, and restoring lasting peace and stability in all theaters of operations,” he said.