No Foreign Troops Took Part In Operation That Killed Terror Commander Abu Bilal Al-Minuki – Nigerian Military

The Defence Headquarters has clarified that no foreign soldiers were involved in the operation that led to the killing of terrorist commander Abu Bilal Al-Minuki.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, made this known during a monitored television interview, where he provided updates on the mission.

He explained that while the United States supported the operation with intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and other technical assistance, no foreign troops were deployed on the ground.

According to him, the strike was a carefully planned and highly coordinated operation carried out by Nigerian forces, resulting in the successful neutralisation of a high-value target.

Onoja said the mission was executed with precision and professionalism, adding that no Nigerian soldier was killed during the operation.

He also noted that previous reports suggesting the terrorist’s death had been mistaken, confirming that the latest operation successfully targeted the correct individual, who was known to use multiple aliases to evade capture.

The defence spokesperson stated that the terrorist had long been on international watchlists, including those of the United Nations, United States, European Union, and Nigeria.

He further revealed that intelligence gathering over several months led to the location and eventual elimination of the suspect.

Onoja added that other notorious cr+minal figures, including bandit leader Bello Turji, remain under surveillance, stressing that security operations are ongoing.

He urged Nigerians to support military efforts by providing useful intelligence and warned against actions such as paying ransom, which he said fuels criminal activity and prolongs insecurity.