Seventeen Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists were eliminated during clearance operations across Borno and Adamawa States by the military.
Spokesperson of the North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Captain Reuben Kovangiya, said this in a statement that the terrorists had been operating in Bama, Konduga, Gwoza, Magumeri and Biu Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as Michika in Adamawa State.
He said the troops also detonated more than 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by the terrorists in various locations.
Kovangiya said in different operations around Bula Daburu, Alau Dam, Bitta, Kawuri, Algambari, Ajiri, and Bulabulin, over 17 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters were killed and several AK-47 rifles, a PKT gun, multiple AK-47 magazines, and a cache of 7.62mm ammunition recovered.
“Other logistics items recovered from the terrorists included approximately 2,300 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), over 1,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), two generators, a tricycle, bags of rice, solar panels, and several motorcycles, among other sundry items,” he said.
He said the IEDs, planted to cause harm to civilians and troops, were safely neutralised by the troops during the operations.
Kovangiya further revealed that within the same period, troops facilitated the safe return of over 987 internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes in Mandaragrau, Biu LGA.
“This aligns with the Borno State Government’s resettlement plan aimed at restoring citizens to their communities and reviving socio-economic activities,” he said.
He also noted that troops of OPHK carried out joint operations with Nigerien forces around the Diffa-Duji-Damasak corridor, enhancing both security and socio-economic stability in the area.
“The sustained offensive operations, in line with directives from the military high command, underscore OPHK’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace in the North East and fostering a conducive environment for socio-economic development,” Kovangiya said.
