Nigerian Military Rescues 813 Hostages, 197 Insurgents Surrender

In March, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) of Nigeria released data indicating significant military gains, reporting the surrender of 197 insurgents and the rescue of 813 hostages. This reflects ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on armed groups.

During this period, the military arrested 1,359 suspects, including terrorists, criminals, and illegal miners, as part of intensified intelligence-led operations across the nation. The DHQ also noted that troops killed 103 terrorists, including identified ring leaders such as Saddam Saleh, Garin Kago, Ba Alayi, and Benbeng, who were believed to orchestrate violent attacks.

Additionally, 104 illegal refining sites were destroyed, and significant quantities of illegal petroleum products were recovered, including 216,570 liters of refined petroleum and 254 weapons. The operations also targeted kidnapping, with 277 victims rescued, including foreign nationals.

The military's crackdown on oil theft and environmental crime in the Niger Delta has been a priority since the beginning of the year.