In a major counter-terrorism operation, the Nigerian Army has reported significant progress in the fight against insurgency in the northeast.
On August 12th, 2024, troops deployed in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State neutralized five Islamic West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a raid on their enclave. The successful operation also led to the recovery of a cache of weapons, including two rocket-propelled grenade bombs, two dane guns, an RPG bomb charger, an AK-47 rifle magazine, and 23 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, six motorcycles and assorted medications were seized.
Separately, the army revealed that 44 Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered to troops stationed in the Bama, Dikwa, and Gwoza local government areas. This follows sustained offensive operations against the terrorist groups in the northeast theater.
“The troops’ relentless efforts in the region have led to this significant development, with dozens of terrorists giving up the fight and turning themselves in,” a military spokesperson stated. “This is a testament to the effectiveness of our counter-terrorism strategy and the growing trust of the local population in the security forces.”
The statement also highlighted other recent achievements of the Nigerian Army. In Plateau State, troops arrested a notorious cattle rustler, Mallam Maawuya Shuaibu, and recovered 32 stolen cows from him. Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, troops conducted raids on suspected criminal hideouts in Korokorosie Community, leading to the arrest of an individual named Donald Emason and the recovery of a revolver pistol and two locally fabricated guns.
Additionally, in Oyo State, troops deployed in Akinyele Local Government Area apprehended a suspected gun runner, Mohammed Bello, 33, who confessed to being a courier supplying arms and ammunition to a kidnap syndicate operating in the area.
These combined operations demonstrate the military’s sustained commitment to ensuring the security and stability of Nigerian communities, particularly in the volatile northeast region. The army’s success in neutralizing terrorists and recovering illicit weapons is a positive step towards restoring peace and safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of the citizens.
