DHQ: Troops Rescue 36 Abductees, Neutralize Several Terrorists in One Week

Nigeria’s military says it rescued 36 abducted people and neutralized several terrorists during operations carried out across the country between August 31 and September 3.

Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, director of Defence Media Operations, said troops targeted terrorists, kidnappers, arms traffickers, criminal networks and secessionist elements in several operational theatres. In Borno and Yobe, Operation HADIN KAI troops killed one terrorist after detonating an improvised explosive device along the Miyanti-Banki Junction supply route in Bama. They recovered a rifle, ammunition and an IED initiator. Another terrorist was killed during an encounter at Lamusuri Crossing Point in Gujba, Yobe, where troops also recovered a rifle and ammunition.

Onoja said troops intercepted a terrorist escapee near Sabsawa, Bama, after he fled captivity because of hunger and hardship. They also arrested a suspect in Konduga who allegedly transported food to a terrorist enclave in Bama, as well as a suspected former terrorist fighter who had become an informant in Damasak, Mobbar. Several terrorist fighters surrendered between September 1 and 2. Twenty-one women and children surrendered at Mafa, Dikwa, after clashes between rival terrorist factions. Troops also intercepted another escapee near Amuda Bridge in Gwoza and arrested a suspected terrorist spy along the Kauwa-Kukawa Road.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted offensive operations against terrorists and kidnappers in Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara. Troops killed two alleged terrorist kingpins and wounded another during a raid on suspected hideouts in Kogo, Matazu, Katsina, destroying two motorcycles. In Kaduna, they intercepted a vehicle containing 793 rounds of ammunition hidden in a sack of grain, while one fleeing suspect was killed. Troops also ambushed terrorists on motorcycles in Zamfara and recovered an RPG launcher, a rifle, ammunition and other items. Six abducted people were rescued in Kebbi, followed by 23 civilians, including three men and 20 women, near Wuya.