The Nigerian Army says it has neutralised a number of Boko Haram/Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists. The terrorists were killed in different encounters in parts of Borno. Furthermore, the troops rescued 12 women and four children from their hideouts.
Equally important, the Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator, Col. Aminu Iliysu; disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
Iliyasu disclosed that the terrorists fell to the superior fire power of the troops of Operation Lafiya Dole. He added that this was in an encounter at Mafa Local Government Area of the state on Dec. 1.
He said that after the encounter which lasted for about 40 minutes; the terrorists suffered heavy casualties in both men and equipment.
According to him, the dogged troops of the Unit; embarked on a hot pursuit of the scampering insurgents. In addition, he disclosed that the troops exploited their withdrawal route.
“During the exploitation, troops recovered three Boko Haram bodies; of which two of them were strapped with suicide vests.
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“Additionally, one Boko Haram criminals’ Gun Truck; one motorcycle; one Anti-Aircraft Gun; one PKT Gun; as well as one Rocket Propelled Gun Tube; were captured by the troops.
“Other items that were equally captured by the troops include two Rocket Propelled Gun bombs; two AK 47 Rifles, 25 Rounds of Anti-Aircraft Gun, 723 Rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition; 51 Rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and also 52 Rounds of 7.62X54mmR (PKT) ammunition.
“Other recovered items are surgical kits, Boko Haram terrorists’ uniforms and also warm clothing; were also captured by the gallant troops,” he said.
Further, the Nigerian Army disclosed that two female suicide bombers attempted to infiltrate the Defence Company of 26 Task Force Brigade Garrison location at Gwoza in another encounter on the same date.
He said that the soldiers deployed on sentry duty identified the criminal intruders. Thereafter, they neutralized them before they could detonate their suicide vests.
Iliyasu said that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai; had commended the troops for their exceptional display of patriotism, professionalism and responsiveness.
“However, he admonishes them to remain resilient and continue to be steadfast in the fight against criminal elements across Nigeria.”
