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TROOPS CAPTURE NOTORIOUS GUNRUNNERS, RECOVER ARMS AND AMMUNITION IN SOUTHERN KADUNA

Troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), on Operation Golden Peace, have arrested a notorious gunrunner, Mr. Timothy Yusuf, 62, and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The operation was carried out following intelligence provided by the Air Intelligence Unit in Abuja. During the operation, the troops recovered 11 fabricated AK-47 rifles, 2 AK-47 magazines, and 60 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The suspect and the recovered arms and ammunition are currently in custody for further action, while efforts are ongoing to track and arrest other members of the gunrunning syndicate. The troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory, according to the Special Situation Report (SITREP) from Operation Golden Peace. This operation is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the region.

NIGERIAN ARMY ANNOUNCES MAJOR REDEPLOYMENT OF SENIOR OFFICERS

In a strategic move to enhance operational effectiveness and administrative efficiency, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has approved the posting and appointment of some senior officers of the Nigerian Army (NA) to various command, staff, and instructional positions. The Director, Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, in a statement, noted that the redeployment cuts across Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters (AHQ), General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of Army training institutions, Brigade Commanders, and other key positions. Nwachukwu stated that the reshufflement underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring a robust and dynamic leadership structure capable of addressing emerging security challenges. Some of the senior officers appointed as PSOs at the Army Headquarters include Maj Gen LA Fejokwu, Maj Gen GU Chibuisi, and Maj Gen AS Ndalolo. The newly appointed General Officers Commanding (GOCs) include Maj Gen OT Olatoye and Maj Gen EF Oyinlola. The acting appointments of Maj Gen AGL Haruna and Maj Gen IA Ajose have been confirmed substantive in the recent redeployment. General Olukede also redeployed other senior officers, including Maj Gen GO Adeshina, who is now the Director General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, and Maj Gen GM Mutkut, who has been posted to the Headquarters Multi National Joint Task Force Njamena as the Force Commander. The Chief of Army Staff has directed all newly appointed senior officers to bring renewed vigor, dedication, and commitment to their duties, particularly while ensuring the sustenance of the ongoing onslaught against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national security. The COAS equally charged them to ensure that the welfare of troops remains paramount as they assume their new appointments. In conclusion, the chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized that the Nigerian Army is committed to ensuring a robust and dynamic leadership structure capable of addressing emerging security challenges.

VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA MOURNS DAMBOA FALLEN SOLDIERS

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the soldiers who lost their lives repelling the terrorist attack in Damboa, Borno State, as eternal heroes whose sacrifices will never be in vain. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, revealed in a statement that Vice President Shettima also reaffirmed his deep sorrow and firm solidarity with the families of the heroic soldiers. Speaking on Thursday in Abuja, Vice President Shettima noted that the military recorded a decisive victory in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-terrorism efforts but regretted that the price of freedom is eternally steep. “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I received news of our brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation in Damboa. These six valiant soldiers demonstrated exceptional courage in the face of danger by protecting their fellow citizens,” Vice President Shettima said. Nkwocha stated that the attack, which took place in Sabon Gari, involved terrorists attempting to ambush troops at a Forward Operating Base. The soldiers’ decisive response, bolstered by reinforcements and air support from Operation HADIN KAI, not only neutralised 34 terrorists but also led to the troops recovering weapons and ammunition and largely weakening the attackers’ capabilities. Vice President Shettima lauded the soldiers’ heroism, saying, “Their sacrifices remind us of the extraordinary price of peace and security. These heroes died ensuring that their fellow Nigerians can live in safety, free from the scourge of insecurity that has impacted our country.” Nkwocha added that Vice President Shettima reassured the grieving families that their beloved children did not die in vain, noting that “their sacrifices will be forever remembered in our nation’s history, and their memory will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians.” Vice President Shettima also commended the armed forces, saying, “To our armed forces, your unwavering commitment to protecting our citizens, even at the cost of your own lives, fills us with profound gratitude and respect. We will continue to support you and provide all necessary resources to ensure you can carry out your duties effectively.” Nkwocha stated that the Vice President further urged Nigerians to honour the fallen heroes by standing firm in the collective pursuit of peace and security. “May Allah grant our fallen heroes Aljannah Firdaus, comfort their families, and give us all the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” VP Shettima prayed.

BREAKING: TROOPS NEUTRALISE IPOB/ESN MEMBERS IN IMO STATE

Troops of the 34 Artillery Brigade have successfully neutralised members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in a series of operations conducted on Friday, December 27, 2024. According to Captain Joseph Baba Akubo, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the troops responded to a distress call regarding an IPOB/ESN attack on Osina Community in Ideato North Local Government Area. The troops swiftly countered the assailants while returning from a routine patrol, catching them off guard and forcing them to retreat in disarray. Akuubo stated, “Despite these losses, the troops recovered the bodies of the fallen agents and launched an aggressive pursuit of the fleeing attackers.” Unfortunately, two security personnel lost their lives during the confrontation, while another remains missing. The assailants managed to seize an AK-47 rifle and a tear gas launcher. Further engagement occurred at Nkwachi Community, where another intense firefight unfolded, resulting in the neutralisation of one IPOB/ESN fighter. The troops then pressed into Umalouma Forest, encountering fierce resistance, but ultimately overwhelming the attackers with superior firepower. The attackers abandoned their weapons and fled with severe injuries. The troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, two magazines, and one tear gas launcher from the forest. Operations are ongoing, with troops actively exploiting the area to dismantle hideouts and apprehend the remaining fugitives. Captain Akubo assured the public of the Army’s commitment to ensuring a secure and peaceful Yuletide season for Imo State residents. He urged citizens to support military efforts by providing timely intelligence on criminal activities and hideouts. “Together, we can rid the state of all forms of criminality and create a safer environment for all,” Akubo stated.