Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified the fight against terrorism in Borno State, killing six suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) fighters, arresting 11 suspected terrorist collaborators and receiving the surrender of a JAS member in separate operations.
The latest operations, carried out in Kaga and Gwoza Local Government Areas, also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, communication devices and other items believed to have been used by the terrorists.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, troops, working with Hybrid Force personnel, carried out a successful ambush along the Targejeri axis of Kaga Local Government Area in the early hours of October 25.
He said the operation resulted in the death of six suspected terrorists.
Security forces also recovered an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 169 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two Android phones, three button phones and charms from the scene.
In another operation, troops conducted a follow-up raid in Benisheikh town after earlier intelligence linked some residents to terrorist activities.
The operation led to the arrest of six additional suspected collaborators, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to 11, including five earlier arrested.
Items recovered during the raid included an AK-47 rifle, three empty magazines, 169 rounds of ammunition, three terrorist uniforms, a turban, a head mask, two Android phones, three button phones and charms.
Military authorities said the suspects are being investigated to determine their level of involvement and identify other members of the network.
Meanwhile, troops deployed at Hambagda Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Gwoza Local Government Area also received a JAS member who voluntarily surrendered after fleeing a terrorist hideout in the Mandara Mountains.
The suspect reportedly surrendered with an AK-47 rifle, one magazine loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and other items. He is currently in military custody for further investigation and processing.
Reacting to the latest operations, the Theatre Command said the achievements reflected the sustained pressure being mounted against terrorist groups and their support networks.
“The latest successes demonstrate the sustained offensive posture, combat readiness and effective coordination of OPHK troops and Hybrid Force personnel in degrading terrorist capabilities, disrupting support networks and encouraging defections from terrorist groups,” the statement said.
It added that “the recovery of weapons and ammunition, coupled with the arrest of suspected collaborators, further reinforces the Theatre Command’s determination to deny terrorists the resources and support required to sustain their activities.”
The command also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations across the North-East.
“The Theatre Command reiterates its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations across the theatre, denying terrorists freedom of action and creating conditions for the safe return of displaced communities and the restoration of socio-economic activities,” the statement added.
The military urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to strengthen ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and stability in the region.
