Troops eliminate terrorists, rescue hostages in Borno operations

By Innocent Raphael

Troops deployed in the North East, alongside Vigilante and Hybrid Forces, have made significant strides in combating terrorist activities in the region.

These operations have led to the elimination of terrorists, the rescue of hostages, and the recovery of arms and various items.

In the Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, troops conducted an ambush targeting terrorists’ staging areas around Pulka and Ashagashiya. They engaged the terrorists, neutralizing one while others fled, abandoning their belongings.

The troops successfully rescued seven women and nine children. Among the items recovered were one submachine gun (SMG), three bicycles, four blankets, cooking utensils, and various other items.

Similarly, in the Komala general area of Borno State, troops executed another ambush operation. This resulted in the neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines containing 29 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, 91 belted links of PKT ammunition, one SMG, and one motorbike.

In a separate operation in Benue State, troops responded to intelligence reports about terrorists’ movements in Ayati Village, Ukum LGA. Upon sighting the troops, the terrorists fled, abandoning one AK-47 rifle, one Dane gun, two 83 mm launchers, four locally made launchers, and one rifle magazine.

Also, the troops seized 19 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, five rounds of 5.56 x 45 mm ammunition, and other assorted arms.

In another successful operation in Kogi State, troops responded to information regarding a planned ransom payment to kidnappers.

Working with vigilantes and local hunters, the troops engaged the kidnappers at the exchange point in Okunran Okoloke General Area. One kidnapper was neutralized, and an AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing 15 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and one motorcycle were recovered.