Nigerian Army Cracks Down: 27 Illegal Miners Arrested in FCT as Troops Neutralise Terrorists Across the Country

 In a major security sweep, the Nigerian Army has arrested 27 suspected illegal miners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, while simultaneously neutralising scores of terrorists in coordinated operations nationwide. The dual actions underscore the military's intensified efforts to combat economic sabotage through illegal mining and eliminate terrorist threats disrupting national stability.

The arrest of the 27 illegal miners occurred during targeted operations in mining hotspots within the FCT, where unlicensed activities have long posed environmental risks, revenue losses, and security concerns. Illegal mining, often linked to organised syndicates and sometimes foreign nationals, has been blamed for ecosystem degradation, community conflicts, and funding criminal elements. The suspects were apprehended with mining equipment and are currently in custody undergoing interrogation to uncover possible networks and affiliations.

This crackdown aligns with the Federal Government's zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, as emphasised in recent directives from relevant agencies. The operation highlights collaboration between the Army and other security outfits to reclaim control over mineral-rich areas and prevent the exploitation of Nigeria's solid minerals sector, which continues to suffer billions in annual losses due to unregulated activities.

Simultaneously, the Nigerian military reported significant gains in counter-terrorism efforts across multiple theatres. In the North East, precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force targeted ISWAP and JAS logistics bases in Borno State, neutralising dozens of terrorists and destroying weapons stockpiles. Ground troops in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger States conducted ambushes and patrols that eliminated additional terrorists, including members of the Lakurawa group, while recovering arms, motorcycles, and communication devices.

In the North Central region, operations under various commands disrupted bandit and kidnapper networks, leading to the rescue of kidnapped victims—including women and children—and the arrest of suspects. The Defence Headquarters, through Director of Defence Media Operations Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, confirmed that recent weekly operations neutralised dozens of terrorists, apprehended over 100 suspects, and freed at least 29 kidnap victims nationwide.

These successes come amid sustained offensives aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, restoring calm to vulnerable communities, and supporting broader national security goals. The Chief of Army Staff has reiterated the commitment to intelligence-driven, joint operations to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

The combined efforts against illegal mining and terrorism demonstrate the Army's multifaceted role in safeguarding Nigeria's economic and security interests. Authorities have urged communities to provide credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations, while warning perpetrators that there will be no safe haven for criminal activities.

As investigations into the arrested miners continue, they are expected to face prosecution, serving as a deterrent to others involved in illegal extraction. The military's recent achievements reflect a renewed momentum in the fight against insecurity, with assurances of sustained pressure until lasting peace is achieved.