The Nigerian military has announced that troops from the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), intercepted Boko Haram fighters attempting to migrate to a new location in Yobe State during a night ambush. The operation, carried out by the 27 Task Force Brigade in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), resulted in the apprehension of four suspected Boko Haram fighters. The ambush was set up east of Azare Village in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

According to Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer of Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, the troops engaged the suspected terrorists in a firefight with superior firepower, leading to possible casualties among the fleeing terrorist elements. The troops recovered several items, including four bicycles, a large quantity of groceries, one sheep, and expended 7.62mm Special ammunition cases. The suspects and recovered items are currently in military custody for further investigation.

In a separate operation, troops of the Brigade arrested nine suspected drug dealers during a routine patrol in Buni Yadi, Gujba LGA. The suspects were found in possession of a large quantity of suspected illicit drugs and cannabis, two mobile phones, and N85,900 in cash. The arrests were made as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal activities capable of undermining security and creating an enabling environment for terrorism and other forms of violent crime.

The suspects and exhibits from the drug dealings have since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary legal action. Captain Goni emphasized that the cumulative successes recorded between 15 and 22 September reflect the impact of sustained operational pressure on terrorist elements and their support networks.

The successes include the surrender of 11 terrorists and the recovery of a vehicle, ammunition, and other logistics items. The Joint Task Force remains resolute in sustaining operational momentum, disrupting terrorist and criminal networks, and denying them freedom of action across the North-east. The military operations aim to degrade terrorist capabilities and deny terrorist and criminal elements freedom of action.

The intercepted Boko Haram fighters were attempting to migrate to a new location, indicating that the terrorist group is still active in the region. The Nigerian military has been working to contain the terrorist threat in the North-east, with a focus on disrupting their networks and preventing further attacks. The ambush and subsequent arrests demonstrate the military's continued efforts to combat terrorism.

The Nigerian military's sustained operational pressure has led to significant successes in recent weeks, including the surrender of terrorists and the recovery of arms and ammunition. The military will continue to work to disrupt terrorist and criminal networks, ensuring the security and safety of the region. The efforts of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, have been crucial in maintaining stability in the North-east.

Key points

  • Nigerian troops intercept Boko Haram fighters in Yobe State, apprehend suspects and recover items.
  • Troops also arrest nine suspected drug dealers in a separate operation.
  • Sustained military operations aim to degrade terrorist capabilities and deny terrorist and criminal elements freedom of action.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.