In a significant military operation in Jigawa State, the Defence Headquarters has reported the successful elimination of a notorious terrorist leader known as Mai Hijabi, along with 164 other terrorists. The operation, aimed at dismantling terrorist networks across Northern Nigeria, marks a major victory in the ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism in the region.
According to Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, the operation was part of a broader effort to degrade the combat capabilities of terror groups operating in the country’s northern parts. Addressing journalists, Gen. Buba highlighted the success of the military operations over the past week, emphasizing the impact on terrorist leadership and operational capacities.
“Our operations have significantly reduced the combat strength of these terror groups and disrupted their leadership structures,” Gen. Buba stated.
He confirmed that Mai Hijabi, a prominent terrorist commander in Jigawa State, was killed during the operation. The elimination of Mai Hijabi represents a critical blow to the operational capacity of the terrorist organization he led.
During the week-long operation, Nigerian troops achieved substantial successes beyond neutralizing terrorists. They also arrested 238 suspects believed to be associated with terrorist activities and rescued 188 kidnapped victims, providing much-needed relief to affected communities.
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In addition to operations in Jigawa, the military’s efforts extended to combating oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region. Gen. Buba reported that 35 suspected oil thieves were apprehended, preventing the theft of an estimated N688,125,150 worth of crude oil. Troops also discovered and destroyed numerous illegal refining sites, confiscating significant quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined diesel.
The military operation yielded a substantial cache of seized weapons and ammunition, crucial in disrupting terrorist activities and enhancing security across the affected regions. Among the recovered items were 153 assorted weapons, including AK47 rifles, Dane guns, pistols, and ammunition totaling 2,182 rounds. Additionally, troops recovered a variety of vehicles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and other materials used in criminal activities.
Gen. Buba emphasized the military’s commitment to sustaining the momentum against terrorism and criminality, urging continued support from the public in providing actionable intelligence. He assured that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain resolute in their mission to safeguard lives and property, reaffirming their dedication to restoring peace and stability in the country.