From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
Between the period of May 20 in 2021 and yesterday, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have neutralized over 1, 910 criminal elements including terrorists, armed bandits and robbers as well as kidnappers across the country.
The Acting Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Benard Onyeuko disclosed this while briefing news men in Abuja yesterday on the activities of the Nigerian military operations between the period of May 2021 and January 6, 2022.
He said in addition to scores of other terrorists and armed bandits within the period, troops also rescued a total of 729 kidnapped victims across the country.
He further said, within the period under review, troops made a cumulative total recoveries of 13, 201, 300 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil and 3, 969, 000 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene.
He said a total of 38, 582 barrels and 6, 491, 000 litres of stolen crude oil as well as 11, 659, 500 litres of illegally refined premium motor spirit were recovered and handed appropriately.
According to him, a total of 912 criminal elements were arrested, while large cache of arms and ammunition as well as livestock among other items of economic and security concerns were recovered by the military troops during the period.
“Gleaning from the available information as 1 have just presented, there is no gain saying that our operational performance for the year 2021 shows our commitment to ensure peace is restored in the country.
“It shows the synergy between the Nigeria military and other security agencies is succeeding in tackling the security challenges facing the country and we will continue to sustain the offensive and will not relent until peace is restored to every troubled zone in Nigeria,” he said.
Maj-Gen. Onyeuko, while assuring the general public of the commitment of the nation’s military to protect lives and properties as well as their economic assets anywhere this year, he also said that the Military High Command has commended all the gallant troops of the Armed Forces and personnel of other security agencies involved in various operations across the country for their resilience, doggedness and commitment. Troops are further encouraged to remain resolute and decisive in securing the country
