By Linus Aleke, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday said that 1,755 terrorists and their families surrendered to troops of Operation Hadin Kai, while 50 terrorists were killed in the area within two weeks.
The military also disclosed that its persistent airstrike in the area led to the neutralization of a key Islamic State of West Africa Province Commander, Alhaji Modu (aka Bem Bem), and his fighters.
Director Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Benard Onyeuko said this while briefing Defence correspondent in Abuja.
He said, “Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have continued to dominate their general area of operation as they conducted operational activities in villages, mountains, towns, and cities. Troops ambush Boko Haram Terrorist/Islamic State of West Africa Province terrorist along Road Uzoro-Gadamayo in Adamawa State.
“During the encounter, one terrorist was neutralized while others fled. Troops further exploited the area and recovered 1 AK49 rifle, 1 AK47 rifle, 4 AK49 magazines, 250 rounds of 5.56mm, 1 bandolier, and a mobile phone. Also, between 27 July to 2 August 2022 troops conducted fighting patrols, ambushes, clearance, and raid operations along Road Pulka-Shave axis, Gabachari, Doksa Village, and Buni Yadi town in Borno and Yobe State respectively.
“Troops in conjunction with Civilian Joint Task Force also arrested Hussain Dungus, Ali Bulama Jidda, and Mallam Ali Abuna terrorist logistics suppliers on 6 August 2022 at and Buni Yadi general area. Items recovered from the suspects include the sum of N1.79m, a large number of assorted foodstuffs, 3 handsets, 2 bicycles, and other sundries. Consequently, within the week under review, a total of 1,755 Boko Haram terrorists’ members and their families comprising 280 adult males, 523 adult females, and 952 children surrendered to their troops at different locations.
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“All surrendered Boko Haram Terrorist members and their families were profiled and handed over to relevant authority,” Onyeuko said.
He further said the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted air interdiction on August 3, 2022, at Degbawa near the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The airstrike, he noted, led to the neutralization of a key Islamic State of West Africa Province Commander Alhaji Modu (aka Bem Bem) and his fighters.
“Information gathered from the locals revealed that 20 terrorists were confirmed dead in the strike at the location where the terrorists converged for a meeting before the strike. Accordingly, within the weeks in focus troops neutralised 29 terrorists, arrested 55, and rescued 52 civilians.
“Also, troops recovered 128 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five bicycles, 12 AK47 rifles, four motorcycles, and five mobile phones. Accordingly, all surrendered and items recovered have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action,” he said.
He said the bi-weekly briefing covered the period from 28 July – 11 August 2022.
