In a series of operations to restore peace in troubled parts of the country, troops of the Nigerian Army have unleashed a crushing blow on terrorist factions, annihilating their ranks and seizing a significant cache of arms, ammunition and logistic supplies. These operations, aimed at decimating insurgent networks, have led to the dismantling of notorious terrorist camps and collaborators across the country.
On 6 October 2024, following credible intelligence, troops launched a devastating ambush on terrorists preparing to assault Lamisheri and Ngirboa communities in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. The ensuing firefight resulted in the extermination of four terrorists and the seizure of an AK-47 rifle loaded with 10 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition.
In a separate engagement on 4 October 2024 in Buni Yadi, terrorists were routed as they attempted to deliver logistics supplies in the Golgore area. Troops confiscated an AK-47 rifle, 18 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, two motorcycles, a bicycle, and other supplies. Troops have also arrested two notorious Boko Haram logistics suppliers in Goniri Market. The suspects were caught purchasing illegal substances suspected to be cannabis sativa and psychoactive drugs intended for insurgents in Bulturam Kwana.
In Borno State, troops in a coordinated offensive around Mandarari area of Damboa Local Government Area on 4 October 2024, ambushed and obliterated terrorist elements, compelling the surrender of a notorious insurgent. The surrendered terrorists handed over his AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and the sum of N40,000 to the troops. Further counter-terrorism operations in Ajilari resulted in the surrendering of two terrorists, including a female minor. The surrenderee relinquished his AK-47 rifle loaded with 5 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and a bicycle. In Bama town, terrorist fighters, comprising 2 adult males, 3 females, and six children, have also surrendered to the troops.
Meanwhile, on 30 September 2024, troops nabbed a key terrorist logistic supplier in the Sabon Gari area of Biu Local Government of Borno state. The vigilant troops arrested Wakili Sabon Gari for fueling terrorists’ activities and facilitating the sales of rustled cattle belonging to the terrorists. Preliminary investigation of the terrorist has uncovered hideouts and medical facilities used by wounded insurgents for treatment, leading to further arrest of other suspects and the recovery of 38 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and medical supplies.
In another operation conducted at Zira Gudugu and Azira Bulama Jakwa villages, troops have arrested two terrorists and recovered two semi-automatic pump action gun, 15 live cartridges and 2 mobile phones.
In Kaduna State, on 44 October 2024, troops have in an encounter with insurgents who disguised as herders in the Madamai Forest of Kaura Local Government neutralized one terrorist, while others fled, abandoning one AK-47 rifle, 45 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and 150 rustled cattle.
In separate operational engagements on 30 September 2024, troops have cleared terrorists in Maidaro, Ngade and Daari villages in the Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State. During the operation, the troops eliminated one insurgent and recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, 10 motorcycles, three power generators, five mobile phones and other equipment. In Takama village, troops on clearance operation also deleted 2 two fighters and recovered an AK 47-rifle, five magazines, and 100 rounds of 7.62 mm (special) ammunition.
In Plateau State, intelligence-led operations on 5 October 2024 have resulted in the arrest of a notorious gunrunner and the recovery of arms in Ramai Village. The troops recovered one revolver pistol and 6 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition. Meanwhile, on 3 October 2024, a foiled robbery in Gwash led to the capture of a suspect and the recovery of a fabricated pistol.
In Benue State, troops have apprehended two terrorists involved in an attack that killed two persons on a farm at Baoya Naka village of Gwer West Local Government Area on 30 October 2024. The troops recovered two AK-47 rifles and 60 rounds of 7.62 mm (special) ammunition from the terrorists’ hideout. The troops on 4 October 2024, also rescued seven kidnapped victims in Tse Anaka, Ututu Chitto, and Ateleyange villages of Ukum Local Government, while subsequent operations led to the arrest of a notorious kidnapper and the liberation of more hostages.
A well-coordinated ambush sprang by troops in Kogi State on 3 October 2024, has led to the capture of 4 terrorists in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area with one suspect who identified himself as a deputy to a notorious terrorist kingpin, Kachalla Bala. The troops also neutralized a prominent terrorist ring leader, Shaibu Kachalla, during a fierce encounter. The troops also arrested additional suspects, including a female, during the operation.
In the Southeast, troops conducted precision raids on IPOB/ESN camps in Ebonyi and Anambra states, neutralizing fighters, recovering arms, and freeing hostages. On 30 October 2024, One AK 47 rifle, two magazines, 28 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and five dane guns were recovered, while two suspects were arrested during encounters at Umuaru, Oriuzi and Igbuduoke Forests in Effiom Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
In Anambara state, troops encounter with terrorists at Ezenifite in Aguata Local Government Area led to the neutralization of one terrorist and recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one semi-automatic pump action gun, 60 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, 15 live cartridges and a vehicle. Troops also arrested two suspects and captured one revolver rifle, 72 rounds of 9mm ammunition, two axes, and 4 mobile phones during an operation in Amagu community in Udi Local Government Area.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has commended the gallant troops and the invaluable support of Nigerians in the ongoing operations. He urged for continued vigilance as troops sustained the fight to restore peace and security until the last vestiges of terrorism were obliterated from the country.
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