Nigerian Army troops have attacked terrorist enclaves in parts of Borno State, dealing a devastating blow to their operations.
The latest offensives were executed
in Bama, Gwoza, Chibok and other communities.
A statement by Army spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu says troops also rescued an elderly woman who had been held hostage by the terrorists for 10 years.
He said furthermore, the troops killed several terrorists, including a notorious terrorist commander, Abba Alai (Amirul Khahid of Alafa) a high-value target who had long been on security watchlists and also dismantled explosives laid enroute their camp.
General Nwachukwu also said that in the aftermath of the onslaught, troops also recovered large cache of deadly weapons.
The statement also said that in Katsina State, terrorists attempting an attack were met with superior firepower, forcing them to flee into the forest, abandoning their motorcycles while a high-ranking terrorist commander in Jibia local government area of Katsina State voluntarily surrendered to troops, handing over two AK-47 rifles and freeing 10 captives, including seven women and three children.
In Zamfara State, troops engaged another group of terrorists, killing one while others fled, leaving behind two motorcycles.
MUST READ : Borno State Govt orders evacuation as flooding submerges Maiduguri
Troops deployed to Niger State equally engaged terrorists in a battle, compelling them to flee into the dense forests of Dakwala and Chikuba where troops subsequently launched sweeping clearance operations, recovering 36 abandoned motorcycles and demolishing all terrorist hideouts in the area.
In Kwara State, troops stormed a known kidnappers’ enclave in Karunji village, forcing the criminals to flee in terror on sighting the advancing troops, leaving their captives behind.
In Delta State troops captured a high-profile IPOB/ESN commander, identified as Ekene Ifeanyi in his hideout within Issele Asagba Forest of Oshimili South Local Government Area.
The suspect, who had been on the security watchlist, was a key figure in establishing IPOB/ESN terrorist cells in Delta State.
Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede while commending the troops’ resilience, has reiterated his resolve to make their welfare a priority, adding that they deserve the best for their selfless service.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
