By Helen Udo,Outlook Media ABUJA.
In a series of coordinated operations, Nigerian Army troops have made significant strides in combating terrorism as they neutralize several terrorists, while others surrender to the troops. The troops also recovered bombs, arms, ammunition, and rustled cattle. They equally arrested some criminal suspects during the operations.
On 12 August 2024, troops conducted raid operation on an Islamic West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists’ enclave in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. In the operation troops neutralized five terrorists and recovered two Rocket Propel Gun (RPG) Bombs, two Dane guns, one RPG Bomb Charger, one AK-47 Rifle Magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62 x 54 mm ammunition, six motorcycles and assorted medications.
Meanwhile, following sustained offensive operations against terrorist groups in the North East theatre, 44 Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered to troops deployed at Bama, Dikwa and, Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno state.
In Plateau state, troops have arrested a notorious cattle rustler, Mallam Maawuya Shuaibu, at Mararaban Kantom in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the state. The suspect who has been on the watchlist of the security agencies in connection with criminal activities in the general area of Barikin Ladi, Riyom and Mangu Local Government areas of the state, was nabbed as the vigilant troops responded to credible intelligence on the suspect’s illicit activities. The troops recovered 32 rustled cows from the suspect.
In Bayelsa State, troops conducted raid operations into suspected criminal hideouts in Korokorosie Community of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. During the operation, troops arrested Mr Donald Emason and recovered one Revolver pistol and two locally fabricated guns concealed by the suspect.
Similarly, troops deployed at Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo state have arrested a suspected gun runner, Mohammed Bello, 33 years. The suspect, who was picked up from his hideout, confessed to be one of the couriers supplying arms and ammunition to Bello Chikidawoje’s kidnap syndicate operating in the general area.
These successful operations demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating terrorism, criminalities, and other security challenges across the country.
