Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have foiled a night ambush by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Azare village, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. The operation, conducted at about 11 p.m. on September 21, followed contact between the troops and the suspected terrorists, resulting in a firefight. The troops deployed superior firepower, and blood traces found in the area indicated possible casualties among fleeing terrorist elements.
The acting Information Officer of OPHK, Capt. Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, September 23. During subsequent exploitation of the area, troops arrested four suspected terrorists. The suspects were found with four bicycles, a large quantity of groceries, one sheep, and expended 7.62mm Special ammunition cases. The recovered items and suspects were taken into military custody for further investigation.
In addition to the arrests, 11 suspected terrorists surrendered to troops during the period under review. Although details of the circumstances surrounding their surrender were not provided, the development is seen as a success for the military. The ongoing efforts aim to disrupt terrorist activities and restore security in communities affected by insurgency in the Northeast.
The operations also led to a separate arrest of nine suspected drug dealers in Buni Yadi, also in Gujba Local Government Area, on September 19. The suspects were found in possession of a large quantity of suspected illicit drugs and cannabis, two mobile phones, and N85,900. The arrest forms part of efforts to disrupt criminal activities capable of undermining security and creating enabling conditions for terrorism and other forms of violent crime.
The suspects and exhibits from the drug dealings have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary legal action. According to Capt. Goni, the successes recorded by the troops reflect the impact of sustained operational pressure on terrorist elements and their support networks.
Capt. Goni reaffirmed that OPHK remained committed to sustaining operational momentum, disrupting terrorist and criminal networks, and denying them freedom of action across the North-East. The military efforts aim to create a secure environment and prevent further terrorist attacks in the region.
The recent operations demonstrate the military's continued efforts to tackle insurgency in Nigeria's Northeast. With the arrest of four terrorists and the surrender of 11 others, the troops have dealt a significant blow to terrorist activities in Yobe State. The military's commitment to sustaining operational momentum is expected to yield further results in the fight against terrorism.
Key points
- Four suspected Boko Haram terrorists were arrested after troops foiled a night ambush in Azare village, Yobe State.
- 11 suspected terrorists surrendered to troops during the period under review, although details of their surrender were not provided.
- The military efforts aim to disrupt terrorist activities and restore security in communities affected by insurgency in the Northeast.
