‘The war is on already’ – Defence Headquarters issues strong warning to terrorists

The Defence Headquarters issued a warning to criminal elements, specifically terrorists and bandits, who have been wreaking havoc in the country, stating that their time is limited.

The DHQ expressed satisfaction with the military’s success in foiling the plans of these criminals in various operations carried out in the past week.

Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, spokesperson for the Defense, emphasized that unless the terrorists surrender, the fight against them will persist.

“The military will continue to deny terrorists, insurgents and violent extremists the ability to achieve their selfish objectives.

“The war is on and their days are numbered, unless they surrender.”

Additionally, he reported that during these operations, 67 terrorists were killed, 190 were apprehended, and 47 kidnapped hostages were rescued.

The operations, which took place in the North West, North East, and North Central regions, resulted in significant casualties for terrorists, insurgents, and violent extremists.

Troops also confiscated 112 various weapons and 989 pieces of ammunition in the areas of operation, including one GT3 rifle, 42 AK-47 rifles, and 11 locally made rifles.

The defence spokesman added that seven pump-action guns, one locally made double-barrel pistol, three dane guns and two locally made pistols were also recovered.

According to him, the ammunition recovered included 342 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 321 rounds of 7.62mm special, 190 rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO, 34 rounds of 9mm, 74 live cartridges, 166 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, empty shells and 27 magazines.

Buba added that 23 vehicles, 33 motorcycles, 31 mobile phones, five Baofeng radios, four bicycles, cutlasses, axes, a digital camera and the sum of N3.2 million were recovered.

Giving a breakdown of the operation in the North East, Buba said troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 42 terrorists, apprehended 15 and rescued ten kidnapped hostages within the week.