The navy has intensified efforts to trace down terrorists chargeable for the assault on Ora-In the past Group in Ifelodun Native Authorities Space of Kwara State, the place 9 worshippers have been kidnapped throughout a church service at an ECWA Church.
It additionally confirmed the rescue of three of the kidnapped victims, whereas operations are ongoing to safe the discharge of the remaining hostages.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Main Basic Michael Onoja, disclosed this throughout a weekly briefing on the actions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria throughout numerous theatres of operation.
He mentioned troops of Operation Savannah Defend, working in collaboration with native vigilantes and forest guard operatives, responded swiftly to the 22 March 2026 assault, resulting in the rescue of the three victims.
He added that troops have since intensified counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping operations throughout Kwara and Niger states, significantly in forested corridors and border communities recognized to harbour prison components.
In associated operations, troops arrested a suspect conveying explosive and improvised explosive machine (IED) supplies alongside the Wawa–Dabar Woko Street in Borgu Native Authorities Space of Niger State.
Though the suspect claimed the supplies have been meant for mining, authorities are investigating the circumstances.
The navy additionally confirmed {that a} bridge alongside the Wawa–Luma Street was destroyed by terrorists to disrupt troop motion and logistics.
Additional operations on 23 March noticed troops, along side Kwara State Forest Guard operatives, arrest six suspected terrorists throughout a stop-and-search train in Isin Native Authorities Space of Kwara State. Gadgets recovered included a domestically made pistol, ammunition, cutlasses, and charms.
On 25 March, an improvised explosive machine found alongside the Wawa–Babanna Street in Niger State was safely detonated by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal workforce.
Troops subsequently launched offensive operations within the space.
In a separate improvement, troops uncovered an unlawful mining website at Luma Village in Borgu LGA on 26 March and arrested seven suspects, together with 4 international nationals from Niger Republic.
In the meantime, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma, in collaboration with DSS operatives, rescued the Secretary of Kibiya LGA, Hon. Hamza Musa Durba, from a forest hideout in Kano State, arrested two suspects, and recovered an AK-47 rifle.
In Zamfara State, troops additionally neutralised two terrorists throughout an ambush operation and recovered weapons and communication tools.
The navy assured that ongoing operations would proceed to focus on terrorist networks and improve safety throughout affected areas.
Linus Aleke
Times Nigeria