Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) in the North Central have recovered $4,500 – worth of over N6 million from a “criminal” as proceeds from the sale of rustled cows during offensive operations in the past week.

The Director Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed this at a briefing on Monday.

Onoja said the offensive operations were conducted in Bokkos, Bassa, Jos North, Jos South, Riyom, Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Wase Local Government Areas of Plateau State, as well as Kaura and Jamaá Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

“The sum of $4,500.00 was recovered from a criminal as a proceed from the sale of rustled cows,” Onoja said.

He said that during firefights in the operations, several terrorists were neutralised, while 39 other criminals were arrested, and four kidnapped victims were rescued, adding that weapons recovered were in custody of troops for further action.

In the North East, Onoja said the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), in conjunction with Nigerian Army Aviation, conducted air missions to the Damboa and Abadam LGAs of Borno State, adding that during those missions, targets were acquired and multiple precision strikes were carried out.

“Similarly, an air interdiction mission was conducted at Doron Duguri in Borno State were terrorists activities was observed, and a precision strike was initiated on the targets. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that dozens of terrorists were neutralised, their weapons and equipment were destroyed accordingly.”

The DMO said that in the South South, troops thwarted significant oil theft during the period, discovering and destroying 20 illegal refineries, while assorted arms and ammunition were also recovered.

While troops of Operation Udo Ka in the South East rescued eight Cameroonians kidnapped by sea pirates at Ikang waterways in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State.

He said that a total of 100 terrorists were arrested across theatres in the period under review, while 29 kidnapped victims, including eight Cameroonians, were rescued.

Onoja said the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) acknowledged the vital role of the media as strategic partners in national security through accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting to counter misinformation, sustain public confidence, and support ongoing operations.

He urged continued professionalism and restraint in reportage, particularly on sensitive operational matters, and appreciated the unwavering support of the Nigerians, whose cooperation, timely information, and trust remain critical to operational success.

“As operations continue across all theatres, the military remains steadfast in its constitutional responsibility to defend the sovereignty of Nigeria and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens,” he said.