The military high command has said troops have killed no fewer than 39 terrorists and arrested 157 during various operations across the country.

The command also said troops rescued no fewer than 109 kidnapped victims between August 21 and 31, 2023.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this while addressing journalists on military operations in the country in Abuja on Thursday.

He said, “Troops of Operation Safe Haven recovered three AK47 rifles, one fabricated AK47 rifle, one fabricated pistol, one Dane gun, and 41 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo. Troops neutralised two gunmen, rescued three hostages, and arrested 15 criminal suspects.

“Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke recovered one FN rifle, five rounds of 7.62mm NATO, two mobile phones, four motorcycles, and the sum of N3,450.00. Troops also neutralised two terrorists, arrested 11 suspects, and rescued six kidnapped hostages.

“In the conduct of operations, troops of Operation Udo Ka recovered two locally made pistols, two rounds of 9mm ammo, one live cartridge, and a pair of canvas. Troops also neutralised three terrorists, arrested 23 suspected criminals, and rescued 12 kidnapped hostages.”

He also said 16 oil thieves were arrested and crude products worth over N700m were recovered from the suspects.

Buba said, “Troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 71 dugout pits, 36 boats, 83 storage tanks, five vehicles, four motorcycles, 58 cooking ovens, five pumping machines, three generators, three speedboats, and 34 illegal refining sites.

“Also, troops recovered 569,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 486,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 59,500 litres of PMS worth N765,863,000.00. Troops also arrested 16 suspected oil thieves.”

Buba said all recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.