Troops of the Joint Taskforce North-East Operation Udo Ka, in collaboration with operatives of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), have dismantled a baby factory in Imo State, South-East Nigeria, rescuing no fewer than 20 victims, including pregnant women, infants, and children.

The military also handed over 220 arms and 1,874 rounds of ammunition, recovered during operations, to the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Mr. Abdul Adamu, in Jos, Plateau State.

Speaking on operations across all theatres, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, said: “Troops, in conjunction with NAPTIP officials, conducted an operation at an orphanage home identified as Dennis Divine Favour in Owerri West LGA of Imo State on 18 August 2025. During the operation, nine pregnant women, seven infants, and four children were rescued and handed over to NAPTIP officials for further investigation.”

He also stated: “Relatedly, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General E.F. Oyinlola, handed over 220 arms and 1,874 rounds of ammunition to the DG, National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Mr. Abdul Adamu, on 17 August 2025 in Jos, Plateau State.

“Additionally, troops arrested a wanted and notorious criminal identified as Adamu Buba (aka ‘Mai Pankshin’) and 13 others in Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Jos South, Bassa, and Jos North LGAs of Plateau State, as well as in Jaba and Zangon Kataf LGAs of Kaduna State. Arms, ammunition, and motorcycles were recovered from them. The recovered items are in the custody of the troops, while interrogation is ongoing.

“Additionally, troops of Joint Taskforce South-South Operation Delta Safe apprehended no fewer than 33 oil thieves and other criminals, and recovered assorted arms, ammunition, and some explosives from them.

“Additionally, on 17 August 2025, troops responded to information about kidnappers attempting to collect ransom from victims’ relatives in Aniocha LGA of Delta State. The troops laid an ambush for the kidnappers, killed three of them, and rescued the victim. Arms and ammunition, as well as the sum of N2,336,000.00 intended for ransom payment, were recovered from the scene.”

He assured: “The gallant troops, in conjunction with other security agencies and hybrid forces, will continue to work together, in line with global best practices, to ensure peace and security are restored to all troubled parts of the country.”

Meanwhile, the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, addressed misrepresentations of the Chief of Defence Staff’s comments:

“In that interview, the CDS encouraged Nigerians to develop basic survival and self-protection skills—likening such training to widely accepted life skills such as driving, taekwondo, judo, swimming, and boxing, amongst others.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or to engage in the unlawful possession of firearms. He is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorized carrying of weapons. His message was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness, and lawful preparedness—not to encourage illegal activity.

“The DHQ further emphasizes that the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies continue to record significant successes in the fight against insecurity nationwide. These gains reflect the government’s sustained commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining peace and stability. Nigerians are assured that their safety remains a top priority and that security efforts are ongoing.”

Stressing the value of basic skills, General Gusau added: “Promoting security awareness at all levels is essential. Basic skills such as unarmed self-defence, swimming, and driving are valuable life skills that enhance individual preparedness and contribute to national security.”

He urged: “The public should consult original sources and verified reports when interpreting public statements, to avoid sharing distorted or misleading accounts—stressing that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.” (AriseNews TV)