Troops neutralise terrorists, rescue kidnapped victims in nationwide offensive

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army has listed rescue of six kidnapped victims and killing of two terrorists in Kogi and Benue State respectively among the achievements of its troops in various operations nationwide in the past 24 hours

The troops in the sustained and coordinated offensive operations also destroyed camps being used by terrorists with recovery of weapons across several operational theatres, a credible military source disclosed.

Giving details of the operation, the source said Under Operation MESA in Kogi, the troops of 12 Brigade rescued six kidnapped victims in separate operations across Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas.

According to the source, one terrorist was neutralised during a firefight, while injured victims are responding to treatment, as sustained military pressure, including air operations, forced terrorists to abandon some captives.

In Kwara, he said the troops of 22 Brigade, working with DSS and ONSA teams, raided a notorious terrorist enclave in Ifelodun Local Government Area, uncovering and destroying camps, a motorcycle and large quantities of food.

“Meanwhile, troops of 32 Brigade responded to terrorist attacks around Eleyowo and Ilu Abo communities in Akure North LGA of Ondo State, where two houses were attacked and three civilians killed.

“Troops pursued the attackers, while injured victims were evacuated by community members and local support groups as security forces continued dominance operations in the affected areas.

“In Benue, under Operation Whirl Stroke, troops laid an ambush along the Naka–Ahume–Makurdi road in Gwer West Local Government Area, neutralising two terrorists and recovering an AK-47 rifle.

He said the troops of 1 Brigade under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, responded to intelligence at Gidan Baushe village, Maradun area of Zamfara where a civilian with gunshot wounds was evacuated.

He added that troops of 8 Division Garrison Strike Team carried out a dawn offensive into terrorist hideouts in Sububu Forest, destroying several camps and logistics structures after tracking active motorcycle routes.

According to him, troops fought through an ambush, dominated the general area and recovered military items, including a ballistic helmet, combat boots, woodland camouflage and two Baofeng radios.

“Items recovered during the Benue operation included an AK-47 magazine and ammunition, which are currently in military custody for further investigation and follow-up actions,” he said.

The source said the troops of the Nigerians army would be relentless to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure safety of lives and property nationwide. (NAN)