…Arrests Notorious Gunrunner Babangida, Foils N7.4 Billion Oil Theft
The Nigerian military has successfully taken down four high-profile terrorist commanders and captured a wanted leader, Abdullahi Ali, who sustained serious gunshot wounds during an operation in the first quarter of 2025.
In a statement on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, confirmed that the slain terrorist leaders were Abba Allai (also known as Amirul Khalid of Alafa), Abdullahi (also known as Honour), Jagaban, and Dan Danger. These individuals were killed during engagements with military forces.
Alongside these operations, troops also arrested several suspected gunrunners and logistics suppliers linked to terrorist activities. Those taken into custody include Alhaji Mansur Mohammed, Shehu Babangida, Sagi David, Blessing Paul, and Shuaibu Maji. The military noted that these actions have caused major disruptions in the command structure of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS, leading to internal conflicts within their ranks.
Meanwhile, the military’s Operation Delta Safe has dealt a massive blow to illegal oil theft, preventing the loss of crude oil worth over N7.4 billion. Troops seized more than 6.2 million liters of stolen crude oil, 1.3 million liters of illegally refined diesel, and other petroleum products. Authorities also uncovered and destroyed 122 illegal refinery sites, 257 crude oil cooking ovens, and 192 boats used for illicit activities.
Security forces have also made significant recoveries of arms, ammunition, and other dangerous weapons used by criminals. More than 90 vehicles used in criminal activities were confiscated.
In the Northeast, Operation Hadin Kai launched several offensives against ISWAP and JAS terrorists. Between March 27 and March 29, military forces conducted raids in Bama, Gwoza, Kaga, and Konduga Local Government Areas of Borno State. These operations resulted in the elimination and capture of several terrorists, along with the recovery of AK-47 rifles and locally made firearms.
From March 27 to April 1, troops, working alongside Hybrid Forces, intercepted 11 terrorist logistics suppliers.
In the Northwest, troops under Operation Fasan Yamma targeted terrorists and kidnappers in Sokoto, Katsina, and Kano States. Encounters between security forces and armed groups led to the elimination of multiple terrorists and the rescue of 16 kidnapped victims. Several motorcycles and firearms were also seized.
Additionally, Operation Whirl Punch led to the arrest of five suspected criminals, including the notorious gunrunner Shuaibu Maji, in Kogi, Edo, and Kwara States.
In North-Central Nigeria, troops under Operation Safe Haven intensified counter-kidnapping efforts in Plateau and Benue States. These operations resulted in the rescue of seven kidnapped individuals and the recovery of 7.62mm ammunition and various weapons.
Throughout the quarter, the Nigerian military demonstrated unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. Airstrikes and reconnaissance missions provided critical support, further weakening terrorist operations across the country.
