Nigerian Troops Arrest Two Boko Haram Spies

Posted on April 1, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Two suspected Boko Haram terrorists carrying out surveillance on Kareto and Dangalti villages, were apprehended by Troops of 158 Task Force Battalion of 5 Brigade, Nigerian Army.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman.

The statement adds that, “Preliminary investigation shows that the apprehended spies were on a mission to facilitate possible attack on the communities by Boko Haram terrorists.

“One of the Boko Haram terrorist belonging to Mamman Nur’s faction, Bulama Kailani Mohammed Metel, under the leadership of Abu Mustapha surrendered himself to troops of 145 task Force Battalion, 5 Brigade at Damasak”.

It has been confirmed that the surrendered suspect, Bulama Kailani Mohammed Metel, a high profile terrorist, had been on the Nigerian Army’s Wanted Boko Haram terrorists poster recently produced, with a serial number 253.

He is currently undergoing further interrogation.

Source: Channels TV

Boko Haram Attack On Magumeri Repelled By Nigerian Troops

Posted on March 16, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 8 Task Force Division, Operation Lafiya Dole, have foiled an attack on Magumeri town, Borno State, on Wednesday evening.

The terrorists who came with some vehicles at about 6:00pm attempted to set the town ablaze and kill the residents but the timely intervention of the troops prevented that mishap.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman.

“The troops have neutralized quite a number of the attackers and those that escaped with gunshot wounds are being pursued.

“So far, the troops have recovered three vehicles and large quantities of arms and ammunition.

“While troops are still consolidating and mopping up, it is imperative to state that preliminary investigation shows that the attackers of Magumeri came from the same community.

“The terrorists that attacked the village are well known to the people”.

It was noted that the village was never attacked throughout the period of the insurgency, for some inexplicable reasons.

The terrorists and their collaborators hibernating in the area were never exposed, so there seems to be unholy alliance between the terrorists and the villagers.

“It is high time for the people to take up the fight themselves and help the Nigerian military and other security agencies to protect them.

“It is a grievous mistake and criminal offence to continue to shield or harbour any known Boko Haram terrorist in their midst.

“The terrorists must be exposed and their movements promptly reported to the security agencies, they are inhuman and barbaric, therefore, they cannot be trusted to spare anyone in perpetuating their inhuman acts”.

However, it is imperative that all communities in the North East especially Borno State, should fully cooperate with the military and the security agencies by exposing Boko Haram terrorists in their respective towns and villages.

Source: Channels TV

Troops shoot dead two teenage female suicide bombers in Maiduguri

Posted on March 13, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Two teenage female suicide bombers in explosive vests were shot dead by troops as they made an attempt to sneak into Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

The civilian Joint Task Force sighted the girls in Ummarari village, along Mulai axis of Maiduguri-Damboa road in the outskirts of Maiduguri at the weekend but refused to stop when ordered to do so. They instead attempted to detonate their explosives, before the security operatives, also in the area, took them down.

Hours before the interception of the suicide bombers, soldiers had gunned down a Boko Haram kingpin during an operation that led to the rescue of 211 civilian captives from a Boko Haram den.

The civil society organizations and media executives from across the country, said after a meeting at the weekend that there was urgent need to halt the attack of the Nigerian Army by Amnesty International (AI) over the prosecution of the war against Boko Haram and attempts to divide the country.

President of COCMEGG, Kenneth Aigbegbele, said the AI report smacks of bias, capable of undermining the hard fought war by the army against the insurgents and could demoralise its personnel in their constitutional roles of defending the territorial integrity of the nation.

COCMEGG said AI’s commentaries were unnecessary, distractive, unfair, and do not represent the true situation in the prosecution of the war against the insurgents by the Nigerian Army.

COCMEGG said AI strangely did not mention in its report nor suggest ways of providing support for the internally displaced persons (IDPs), nor proffer ways of rebuilding the devastated northeast or how to promote peace and tranquility in the country.

In a related development, Senate President Bukola Saraki has solicited the support of Germany in rebuilding north east, Nigeria.A statement by the Special Assistant to the Senate President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu sent to The Guardian at the weekend, explained that the lawmakers discussed how to forge strong economic co-operation, rebuild the insurgency-ravaged north-east.

Saraki, accompanied by Deputy Senate Leader, Bala Ibn Naallah, Senators Enyinaya Abaribe, Monsurat Sunmonu and Abubakar Kyari, had meetings with the Vice President of the lower chamber of the German Parliament, the Bundestag, Mr. Johannes Singhammer, top officials of the think-tank group, Konrad Adenauer Foundation, and others.

Similarly, the President of National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Comrade Chinonso Obasi, has said the easiest way for government to permanently defeat insurgence and militancy in the country was to introduce subsidy in education sector.

Obasi spoke yesterday when he led the NANS to a thanksgiving service at the Faith Miracle International Church, Abuja, following the conclusion of its three-day prayer on the quick recovery and safe return of the president.

Source: The Guardian

Boko Haram: Troops must respect human rights – Gen. Irabor

Posted on March 8, 2017 by Staff Reporter

The Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj.-Gen. Lucky Irabor, says his troops must respect human rights in the counter-insurgency operation against Boko Haram terrorists in the North East Zone.

A statement issued on Tuesday by Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, said Irabor made the assertion when he received the representative of the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, Mr Tony Ojukwu, in Maiduguri.

Irabor said that the provisions of the Operation’s code of conduct and rules of engagement were testimonials to the professional and positive disposition of the command and its troops to human rights and international humanitarian laws in the conduct of the war against terrorism.

He said that compliance with human rights and other laws of conflict had been brought into the mainstream of training in the Nigerian Army.

“Aside the code of conduct which has been adequately distributed to troops, the Nigerian Army has also established Human Rights Desks at the Army Headquarters and Divisional Headquarters,’’ he added.

He reiterated that military duties revolved around personal and national sacrifice.

Irabor, however, expressed dismay that the military which had volunteered to sacrifice for peace and development of the nation was being perceived in some quarters as willingly violating human rights.

He assured the commission of the willingness of the Theatre Command to partner it in promoting human rights accountability in the North East Zone.

Ojukwu, on his part, said the commission was pleased to acknowledge that the military was already conscious of the need to carry out the counter-insurgency operation with utmost respect for human rights.

He noted that respect for human rights was beneficial to both the military and Nigeria in general.

Ojukwu commended the army for initiating the quarterly human rights dialogue with the commission, saying it had further enhanced the human rights disposition of the force.

Source: Today

JUST IN: Troops kill six ‘suicide bombers’ in Maiduguri

Posted on February 17, 2017 by Staff Reporter

The Nigeria army on Thursday killed six suspected suicide bombers when they tried to storm into the town at the Mafa checkpoint, 9 kilometer to Maiduguri Capital, TheCable understands.

TheCable also learnt that the six Boko Haram militants came with three other suicide bombers who detonated their explosives at Muna motor park and Muna Dalti, a community located opposite an IDPs camp, killing two and injuring eight members of the civilian JTF.

A civilian JTF, Ba’ani Aliko, told TheCable that the incident took place around 11.30pm at Muna motor park while the other attack occurred at Muna Dalti around 2.02am on Friday.

Nine persons were killed, including the suicide bomber.

The security agencies are yet to issue a statement.

Source: The Cable

Nigerian troops intercept two female suicide bombers in Borno

Posted on February 7, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Two teenage girls, both armed with explosives vests around their bodies, were intercepted by security personnel near a mega fuel filling in Maiduguri, Borno State, while attempting to carry out an attack on the city, police said.

Police spokesman, Victor Isuku, who confirmed the incident, said one of the girls was shot dead while trying to escape arrest. The second girl surrendered and was arrested by security operatives stationed near the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) mega station along Maiduguri-Biu road.

Mr. Isuku, a deputy superintendent of police, said the incident occurred Tuesday.

“They were intercepted by security personnel on duty. One was arrested and the other one was shot dead. EOD personnel were quickly drafted to the scene and rendered the area safe,” he said.

The NNPC mega station has in the past week been quite busy as motorists file out on long queue amid rumour of likely fuel scarcity.

Residents have commended the troops for saving them from what would have turned out a major calamity had the explosives worn by the girls gone off near the city’s largest fuel station.

“We really thank God and commend the security people for being very vigilant and proactive in spotting the suicide bombers on time”, said one Sammaila Bashir, a motorists who claimed to have witnessed the incident.

“If they were not spotted on time, who knows their destination especially as they were seen behind the NNPC mega station,” he said.

Source: Premium Times

Troops Recover Shilka, Gun Truck From Fleeing Boko Haram Terrorists

Posted on February 2, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Troops had an encounter with fleeing Boko Haram terrorists and recovered armoured fighting vehicle, trucks, arms and ammunition from the insurgents.

The recovery was made on Wednesday morning by troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, Seven Division of the Nigerian Army on Operation Lafiya Dole, during a clearance operation at Dulsa and Buk in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The spokesman for the Army, Brigadier General Sani Usman, said in a statement that the soldiers neutralised a large number of the terrorists and wounded several others.

“At Dulsa this morning, the troops cleared the hideout of the terrorists during which they neutralised six Boko Haram terrorists, recovered one light machine gun, two rocket propelled grenade tubes and one extra anti-aircraft gun barrel.

“The troops also encountered Boko Haram terrorists’ camp at Buk where they were engaged by the terrorists.

“During the encounter, the troops neutralised a large number of the Boko Haram terrorists and wounded several others. They also made an unprecedented recovery.

“The items recovered include nine AK-47 rifles, three Fabrique Nationale rifles, two rocket propelled grenade bombs, one mortar tube, one Shilka, one gun truck mounted with anti-aircraft gun and two Hilux vehicles,” he siad.

General Usman, however, said that three soldiers paid the supreme price while five others were wounded in the action.

He added that one Mine-Resistant, Ambush-Protected vehicle belonging to the Brigade was badly damaged.

The Army spokesman said that the bodies of the late soldiers and those that sustained injuries have since been evacuated.

He also noted that the wounded soldiers are in stable condition.

Nigerian Warship And Troops Head For Gambia To Sack Yahya Jammeh

Posted on January 18, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Nigeria soldiers will, on Wednesday (today), arrive at a base of the Economic Community of West African States troops in Senegal to ensure that President Yahya Jammeh of the Gambia steps down on Thursday, January 19.

Nigerian warship, NNS UNITY, is also heading for the coast of The Gambia to join the operation.

The PUNCH learnt from a top military source in the Nigerian Air Force that the troops would be briefed by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, in the early hours of Wednesday, before leaving for Senegal.

It was gathered that apart from the NAF and the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Army would also contribute troops, although the number of deployment could not yet be ascertained as of the time of filing this report.

The source said some of the NAF fighter jets were expected to airlift the troops.

He said, “I can confirm to you that men of the Air Force will leave for Senegal tomorrow (Wednesday). They will be briefed by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, at the Kainji base in Niger State.

“That Nigeria is deploying troops is now a certainty after several meetings with The Gambian president yielded no result. The Chiefs of Defence Staff of ECOWAS countries came to Abuja on Saturday, where they discussed what components each member state is expected to contribute to the troops that will force Yahya Jammeh out.

“The troops are expected to stay for two weeks and they will be received at a base in Senegal.”

Another military source added, “The NNS Unity is currently sailing off the coast of Ghana, after leaving from Lagos. It is not only Nigeria. Senegal is the host country for the troops, as it would be easy to launch an attack from there.”

The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, however, said it could not confirm the deployments, adding that it was a matter being coordinated by political leaders.

The Director, Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, said, “We should not drag the Nigerian military into a political issue. What is happening is a political discussion between the ECOWAS leaders, aimed at solving a political impasse in one of its member states.

“Whatever they agreed to do is what will happen. Therefore, the military is not for any engagement regarding Jammeh or any other person for that matter.”

Adama Barrow of the opposition party won the December 1, 2016, presidential election but Jammeh, who initially conceded defeat by congratulating Barrow, made a U-turn a week later, saying he would challenge the results.

Despite interventions by the African Union and ECOWAS, Jammeh insisted he would not hand over power to Barrow.

This stance informed the decision of the leaders to withdraw their recognition for Jammeh as the Gambian president after Thursday.

Meanwhile, Jammeh, on Tuesday, declared a 90-day state of emergency 24 hours to the end of his tenure.

He warned security forces against violating the order or engaging in acts likely to cause a breach of the peace, and denounced “foreign interference in The Gambia’s election.”

The declaration of a state of emergency by the embattled President followed a rejection of his injunction to stop Barrow’s inauguration by the Gambian Chief Justice, Emmanuel Fagbenle, on Monday.

In a televised announcement on Tuesday, Jammeh said, “Any acts of disobedience to the laws of the Gambia, incitement of violence and acts intended to disturb public order and peace are banned under the state of emergency.”

He directed security forces to “maintain absolute peace, law and order.”

Barrow is currently in Senegal and due to security fears, he was unable to attend the funeral of his eight-year-old son, who died on Monday after a dog bite.

Source: Sahara Reporters

Nigerian troops rescue 58, kill 13 suspected Boko Haram members

Posted on January 16, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Troops of the Operation Lafiya Dole in conjunction with local vigilance group killed 13 suspected insurgents in two villages and rescued 58 from operations in Bomboshe and Sinbaya in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno at the weekend.

The Director Army Public Relations (DAPR), Brig-Gen. Sani Usman said the result achieved was from the continuous raid, fighting patrols, cordon and search on suspected Boko Haram hideouts in some villages, carried out by troops in conjunction with the civilian JTF.

This is coming as a fleeing member of the sect identified as Alkali, was arrested in Ibadan and is undergoing interrogation by the police.He confessed that he fled Sambisa forest and that some members of the group were in Lagos.

While confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adekunle Ajisebutu said the man was under interrogation. Also, the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), has hailed the Department of State Services for its vigilance, which led to the arrest of suspected Boko Haram members in Lagos State.

Adams praised the DSS and sent out further warnings to criminal elements in the South West and other states with OPC presence that they would not be allowed to fester.Meanwhile, the Northern Interfaith and Religious Organizations for Peace (NIROP), has queried the motive behind Borno State government’s reaction to the arrest and interrogation of the Chairman of Mafa Local Government Council, Alhaji Shettima Lawan, who was caught harbouring Boko Haram fighters.

National Coordinator of the group, Bishop Musa Fomson in Abuja yesterday said it appears that while soldiers were diligently working to round up escaping terrorists, the politicians were covertly subverting the military’s efforts thereby making the work to be worthless.Fomson expressed worry that the action of the state government shows sabotage in the Federal Government’s quest to end terrorism.

He said Nigerians must rise up and condemn any attempt that will encourage the terrorist group from regrouping. He urged the army to remain focus in its mission of moping up remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists.

He said, “We appeal that Nigerians make vigilance their watchword, be their neighbors’ keepers and support the military to expose those that are political Boko Haram as we see this as being strategic to winning the battle and ensuring that the peace in the wake of the terror group’s defeat is not short lived.’’

Meanwhile, the Borno state government has returned 454 “rehabilitated and stabilised children” to two border liberated communities, after spending nine months at the Maiduguri stabilization and rehabilitation centre.

The children were accompanied by their mothers to join their parents and other relations in Bama and Banki.Addressing them yesterday at the stabilization and rehabilitation camp in Maiduguri, Chairman of State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alhaji Ahmed Satomi, said: “We are not just returning these children and mothers to liberated communities, but on arrival, they will be provided with educational facilities to continue with their educational pursuits and future.”He said another batch of 482 children out of 2, 018 IDPs at the rehabilitation and stabilization centre, will be re-integrated and enrolled into schools in the metropolis.

Source: Guardian

Germany to deploy more troops to Mali

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Staff Reporter

Germany’s cabinet on Wednesday approved the deployment of eight attack and transport helicopters as well as 350 additional soldiers to Mali as part of a U.N. peacekeeping mission, sources told Reuters.

The helicopters will replace those of the Dutch army, and the additional troops will service and maintain the fleet.

After the deployment, Germany will have some 1,000 soldiers in Mali taking part in the 15,000-strong U.N. mission that oversees a peace deal agreed in 2015 between the government and rebels.

The additional deployments will have to be approved by the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament.

The four attack helicopters and a similar number of transport machines will stay in Mali until mid-2018.

Some 100 peacekeepers have died in Mali, where France launched a military operation in 2013 to push back Islamists who a year earlier had hijacked an ethnic Tuareg uprising in the north of the country.

The cabinet has also approved the extension of a mission in northern Iraq, where some 150 soldiers have been training Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State. That mandate also requires parliamentary approval.

Buratai Warns Against Delay In Payment Of Troops’ Salaries

Posted on December 21, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Tukur Buratai, yesterday, warned against delay in payment of salaries and allowances of troops engaged in the fight against insurgency in the North East.

Buratai, who spoke while declaring open, a seminar on Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, for army personnel, in Abuja, insisted that prompt and accelerated payment of salaries and allowances to the fighting troops was one of the ways of boosting their moral.

He admitted that the objectives of the IPPIS were to ensure transparency, accountability and improve the effectiveness of payroll administration in all government ministries and agencies, adding that the development would present new challenges in the management of troops’ salaries and allowances.

He said: “I approve this seminar and know that the implementation of IPPIS in the military will present new challenges in the management of troops’ salaries and allowances. “I am hereby charging the finance corps to ensure that the nuances of transition are well understood so as to continue to boost the morale of the fighting troops.

“We understand that seamless, timely and regular payment of personnel salaries and allowances are an essential ingredient for the sustenance of morale of the troops.

“This is especially important towards the current ongoing efforts at consolidating on the counter-terrorism efforts in the north eastern part of the country and indeed all other operations around the country.”

Credit:

http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/boko-haram-buratai-warns-delay-payment-troops-salaries/

Troops may leave N’East in 2017, says Buratai

Posted on December 13, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Monday said troops fighting the Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East would be returned to the barracks in 2017, when the fight would have been over.

Although twin blasts, suspected to have been coordinated by the Boko Haram fighters, killed 56 persons and injured 77 in a market in Madagali, Adamawa State on Friday, the army chief said the military was sure of success over the insurgents.

Also, on Sunday, another suicide attack on Monday Market, Maiduguri, Borno State, claimed three lives and injured 17 persons, but Buratai, who visited troops in the Damboa Local Government Area of the state, said the army would continue aggressive actions against the insurgents.

The army chief, who visited the 81 battalion on Monday, added that success over the Boko Haram remnants in the area would also facilitate the return of the Internally Displaced Persons to their homes.

He said, “Going by my first message in December, we must work to get out of this place. We must work to get out of this operation very quickly. We must defeat the Boko Haram. I was in one of the barracks and I have assured the families of our troops that many of you will go back in 2017.

“This battalion has done well. It fought along with the Cameroonian troops in this battle which means it is better placed to deal with these criminals. We must continue with the aggressive actions, patrol and ambush.

“We must move into all the hideouts of these criminals and fish them out. Other troops in the Sambisa Forest are dealing with them as well.”

Buratai said the army would do more to enhance the welfare of troops, adding that there would be a rotation of soldiers every six months of deployment.

The COAS also visited Alpha Company of 25 Brigade in Damboa to assess the new headquarters of the brigade.

Meanwhile, a member of the House of Representatives, Mr. Adamu Kamale, on Monday debunked claims by the Federal Government that all communities hitherto occupied by Boko Haram insurgents had been completely liberated.

Kamale, who represents Michika/Madagali Federal Constituency of Adamawa State, said contrary to the claims of the authorities, particularly the Nigerian military, not much had changed in the territories.

He spoke exclusively with The PUNCH in response to last week Friday’s twin bomb explosions in a popular market in Madagali, which resulted in the death of at least 56 people.

Kamale explained that many villages in his constituency share common boundaries with the dreaded Sambisa Forest, the main base of the Boko Haram insurgents.

He stated that insurgents infiltrated the communities, occupied the villages for as long as it pleased them, kidnapping and killing defenceless villagers in the process.

The lawmaker added, “Madagali still has challenges. I am the representative of this area and I know what I am saying. Many of our territories are still under the control of the insurgents.

“They kidnap and slaughter our people at will. Before last week’s attacks in Madagali market, three people were kidnapped and killed a day earlier in the same place.

“Some of these incidents are actually unreported and because they are not documented, the impression is created that all is well.

“The claims by the authorities that only pockets of insurgents are still operating are not true. The insurgents are still very much in control of many of our villages close to the Sambisa Forest. They still occupy these territories.”

Kamale told The PUNCH that though the insurgents would try to retreat whenever they sensed the presence of the military, he insisted that they always returned to “terrorise the villages and occupy them as soon as the soldiers move to other locations.”

The lawmaker said the solution was for the government to provide “adequate security for these communities in Madagali” by ensuring that the military had a permanent operational base there.

“We need the Federal Government to come to the aid of these defenceless villagers,” he appealed.

Kamale added that he felt embittered each time the government asked displaced villagers to return home on the excuse that their communities had been fully liberated.

“Let the people have adequate security; the psychological loss to our people is devastating.

“Their problem is beyond sharing food items to them or merely asking them to return to homes that are not secured,” he said.

Troops Destroy Armed Bandit’s Camps In Zamfara

Posted on December 9, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops attached to 1 Division of the Nigerian Army have ramped up clearance operations against armed bandits and cattle rustlers in Zamafara State as part of Operation Sharan Daji.

According to a press release issued by Colonel Sani Usman on Thursday, troops killed 9 armed bandits and livestock rustlers within the past three days. They also destroyed the bandits’ and rustlers’ camps and motorcycles in Bungudu and Maru Local Government Areas.

The soldiers also arrested two suspected armed bandits: Awidi Mohammed and Mummuni Mohammed. They also recovered 292 cows, 44 rams, and 17 donkeys from the livestock rustlers, who had stolen the animals.

An additional suspect, Abdullahi Abubakar, was later arrested and is believed to be an accomplice of a notorious bandit named Buharin Daji.

While the 1 Division has intensified its efforts to rid Zamfara State of illegal activities, it is also engaged in peace talks with relevant stakeholders in the region. According to Mr. Usman, cooperative cattle rustlers have provided valuable information to the Division and the Zamfara State government.

Troops Neutralize 13 Insurgents In Kangarwa

Posted on December 5, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 119 Task Force Battalion, 8 Division Nigerian Army, deployed at Kangarwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Northern Borno State, have yesterday neutralized 13 Boko Haram terrorists in a counter attack carried out by the troops.

Unfortunately, 1 soldier paid the supreme price during the encounter, while 3 soldiers were wounded in action.

The offensive which began at about 4.00pm and lasted for roughly four hours, necessitated the troops calling for air support to which the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) promptly responded by dispatching an Intelligence Surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft and a Ground Attack Fighter Aircraft in support of the ground offensive.

The fierce counter also saw some insurgents fleeing with gunshot wounds and abandoning logistics and weapons.

The troops also neutralized 2 Hilux vehicles belonging to the insurgents and recovered the following; a Hilux vehicle, 1 Browning Machine Gun (BMG), 1 Anti Aircraft Gun (AAG), 2 General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), 1 Light Machine Gun (LMG), 2 Rocket Propelled Guns Seven (RPG 7) tubes and bombs, 5 AK-47 Rifles and 550 Rounds of Anti-Aircraft Gun ammunition.

Credit:

http://dailytimes.ng/troops-neutralize-13-insurgents-kangarwa/

Nigeria Military Troops Kill Three Suspected Kidnappers In Bayelsa.

Posted on December 1, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops from Operation Delta Safe, the Nigeria Military Task Force in the Niger Delta, killed three suspected kidnappers in a shootout with some suspected sea pirates and kidnappers in the waterways of Bayelsa and Rivers States.

The notorious gang, which had been terrorizing the waterways of both States, was intercepted by IRT operatives on Azikiwe Road in Port-Harcourt on their way to an operation.

One James Peters, from Southern Ijaw, was arrested, and he is currently telling security agencies about other members of the gang and the location of their weapons.

“The gang members, on sighting the IRT Teams, opened fire and engaged the operatives. Hence, three of the hoodlums were fatally wounded while one James Peter, a 30-year-old from Southern Ijaw, was arrested alive,” the statement continued.

The troops recovered one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) with bridge number 132/095 and a chain of bullets, as well as one AK47 rifle with bridge number 0231, and two AK47 magazine fully loaded.

Troops Kill 30 Terrorists In Failed Ambush

Posted on November 28, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops attached to the 121 Task Force Battalion killed 30 terrorists suspected to be Boko Haram members on Saturday morning, according to a press statement released by the military.

According to the report, troops were escorting local government officials and travelers from Pulka to Maiduguri when militants ambushed the convoy. The terrorists fired shots at the troops and officials and detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs), but the troops were able to successfully repel the attack.

Among those in the convoy was Saeed Salisu Sambo, caretaker committee chairman of the Gwoza Local Government Council, who disclosed that no troops or government officials were killed in the attack.

“I must commend the gallantry of the troops led by the duo Patrol Commanders of the 121BN, Captain S. Suleiman and Lt. N. Ayuba,” Mr. Sambo said.

Some troops sustained injuries and are currently being treated at Brigadier Maimalari Barracks Hospital.

Nigerian Navy Sends Troops To Fight Boko Haram

Posted on November 23, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Military said on Wednesday that it deployed Naval troops to Borno as part of its renewed efforts to end the Boko Haram terrorism in the North-East.

The Theater Commander of the Operation Lafiya Dole, Lucky Irabor, a Maj. Gen., told journalists in Maiduguri that the troops were inducted into the theater as the maritime component to strengthen its operation.

“The advance party for the maritime component of Operation Lafiya Dole has been inducted into the theater on September 8,” he said.

“They will be deployed at Naval Outpost in Baga and will later operate around the fringes of Nigerian side of the Lake Chad.

“However, they are now temporarily accommodated at the Federal College of Fresh Water and Fishery Technology in Baga, awaiting arrival of the main body and other logistics.

“Currently, they are conducting patrols in conjunction with troops of Multi National Joint Task Force in Baga,” he said.

The commander said the troops of the theater recorded successes in clearing Boko Haram insurgents under its “Operation KARYA GWIWA’’.

“On October 28, our troops commenced clearing operations on two axis to clear and destroy insurgents along Golgore, Doksa, Ajigin and environs.

“The troops located a terrorist’s camp and on sighting the team, they fled the camp abandoning seven motorcycles, five bicycles, a desert camouflage and a large quantity of drugs.

“All the recovered items were destroyed and during the operations, 37 terrorists were killed while two officers and five soldiers were wounded and a member of the vigilante died, during the offensive operation.

“On October 29, our troops continued their advance and later came under Boko Haram ambush at Ugundiri, where five soldiers sustained gunshot wounds.

“Two anti-aircraft guns were recovered from the terrorists and a gun truck was destroyed,” he said.

Credit: NAN

Another officer dies, eight injured after Boko Haram ambush Nigerian soldiers.

Posted on November 17, 2016 by Staff Reporter

One other soldier died and eight others were injured in the Boko Haram ambush that led to the death of B.U. Umar, a lieutenant colonel.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr. Umar and troops of the 114 TF battalion were ambushed on Tuesday by Boko Haram on the road between Bita and Piridang.

While Mr. Umar died immediately during the attack, another soldier, a lieutenant (name withheld) died of bullet wounds hours later.

The troops were travelling from Bita in Borno to Yola in Adamawa State when they were ambushed, sources had told PREMIUM TIMES.

However, the army has continued to keep mum on the attack. Army spokesperson, Sani Usman, did not pick or return calls made to his phone on Wednesday and is yet to release any statement on the attack.

The army’s decision to keep mum comes weeks after it muddled up information on the fate of 83 soldiers who went missing after a Boko Haram attack on their formation.

Tuesday’s attack occurs about a week after another lieutenant colonel, Muhammad Abu-Ali, and his troops were killed in another ambush by Boko Haram.

Fourteen Boko Haram insurgents and four other soldiers died in that attack, the army had said.

The attacks by the Boko Haram have continued despite ongoing negotiation with the federal government.
The negotiations already led to the release of 21 of the over 200 Chibok girls kidnapped by the sect in 2014.

Troops defuse IED in Bayelsa, arrest four suspects.

Posted on November 15, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The joint taskforce code-named “Operation Delta Safe” has discovered a suspected criminal hideout around Biogbolo Secondary School in Yenagoa metropolis, Bayelsa state.

The taskforce revealed that this was while its men were on foot patrol. The area was cordoned and subsequently searched.

Upon searching, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) placed on a riser with the intention of blasting it was discovered. The IED was diffused as troops provided security.

The joint taskforce, in a statement, informed residents of Bayelsa State that the relative peace now enjoyed in the State is due to the unrelenting approach of its officers in the fight against criminality in the Niger Delta.

The statement which was signed by the coordinator joint media campaign centre, Lieutenant Colonel Olaolu Daudu, says the troops of the joint taskforce ‘Operation Delta Safe’ have successfully dislodged a suspected unrepentant militants/sea robbers camp extension at Isunkiri in Bayelsa State.

Items recovered during the raid include; two laptops, Philippino currency note and coins, one plasma TV, one DVD player, two saw blades, four Motorola hand held radios, two R2 GMDS radios, four mobile phones, five Radio chargers, five Motorola Radio batteries and one foreign ATM card.

Others items are; two sim cards, one civil helmet, pair of firefighting uniform, one GMI radio, documents/identity cards belonging to one Mr Roberto Bacariza Jr (Philippino), civil clothes, four pairs of Swire pacific offshore overall uniform, two boxes of drugs, two foreign passports, one ladder, one blue colour speed boat mounted with 115 Horse power with inscription VIP on it and one 75 Horse power engine, light blue coloured fibre.

Also the troops on anti-illegal bunkering operations discovered and destroyed a bunkering camp in Obi creek Epelepele Community of Brass Local Government Area in the State.

The joint taskforce revealed that a tip off led to the arrest of Mr Kelly Ikurusi, Mr Dokubo Erempagamo, Mr Orifie Borto and Mr George Friday AKA Yellow 1.

Yellow 1 is believed to be among the militants who attacked and killed the officers who were ambushed on August 8, 2016 at Nembe.

The four suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations.

Wounded soldier urges Nigerians to pay attention to troops’ welfare.

Posted on November 15, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Ibrahim Usman, one of wounded soldiers in the fight against the Boko Haram terrorists in the North East, has called on Nigerians to pay more attention to troops’ welfare.

Usman made the appeal in an interview with newsmen on Monday when the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, visited wounded soldiers at hospitals in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The soldier, who was admitted to the military hospital in Maimalari Cantonment, about three weeks ago, urged Nigerians to pay attention to soldiers’ well being in the frontline, just as they were doing for the missing Chibok girls.

According to Usman, his two legs broke during an explosion when a vehicle conveying him and nine other soldiers to Monguno in Borno North during an operation stepped on mine planted by the terrorists.

Usman said: “We need Nigerians to take care of us.

“Like this my injury, broken legs, they ought to take me to a specialist hospital or abroad for a good treatment.

“If it is these girls, Chibok school girls, they will take them abroad.

“We are the ones fighting in the bush.”

Although Usman revealed he was responding to treatment, he said would retire from the military when he gets well due to the injury.

He said: “I cannot fight again because I do not have that strength any more.

“My legs are broken.

“If I get well, I will retire because my legs are broken.

“I can no longer go and fight the insurgents.”

Another soldier, Ahmed Musa, however, thanked the army chief for visiting wounded soldiers in the hospital.

Musa, of 119 Battalion Task Force, Mallam Fatori, said: “My situation when I got here was worse but thank God I am getting healed.

“I have injury in one of my hands.

“When he (Buratai) came here, we were happy because when we came here we did not see anybody.

“We appreciate the way he comes here.”

According to Innocent Gabriel, a nurse attending to one of the wounded soldiers at the time of the visit, the common cases of injury are fractures resulting from explosions and gunshots.

Gabriel said most of wounded soldiers were responding to treatment, adding that some of them may be taken to the theatre.

The doctor in charge of the hospital, Lieutenant Colonel Ndidi Onuchukwu, a Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon, said 97 wounded soldiers were being treated in the facility which had capacity for 105 patients.

Onuchukwu said that the worst cases come from combat injuries, adding that the hospital was collaborating with the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital to give the best to them.

Speaking after the visit, Buratai described it as “operation and welfare visit” to encourage the wounded soldiers.

He said most of them would soon be discharged and commended troops for efforts in the war against the insurgents.

Prof. Abdurrahman Tahir, the Chief Medical Director of UMTH, lauded the army for the prompt settlement of its personnel medical bills.

Troops Rescue 85 Hostages Near Lake Chad

Posted on November 7, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 7 Division of Operation LAFIYA DOLE, led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Brig-General Victor Ezugwu, have rescued 85 Boko Haram hostages, mostly women and children, in Chukungudu, on the fringe of Lake Chad.

The troops neutralised five insurgents in an encounter where several terrorists ran into the Lake Chad waters.

Four rounds of Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs, double-barrel gun, 349 packets containing ammunition, three magazines, link belt of machine gun ammunition and AK-47 rifle were recovered.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) making factory was found at Geram, with several already-primed suicide vests.

A well-equipped vehicle and motorcycle workshop as well as spare parts warehouse were discovered at Chukungudu, with three vehicles and motorcycles found.

A soldier died during the encounter.

Acting Army Director of Public Relations Col. Sani Usman said in line with the Rules of Engagement, the IED factory, vehicles and motorcycles were destroyed.

Credit:

Troops rescue 85 hostages near Lake Chad

Troops invade shrine of N’Delta militants, ‘arrest chief priest’.

Posted on October 31, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE, a military outfit in the Niger Delta, have arrested the chief priest of Bayelsa Strike Force, a militant group in Cross River state.

Olaolu Daudu, spokesman of the outfit, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.

He said the shrine located in Ikot Offing Ambai in Akpabuyo local government area of the state, was destroyed.

Daudu said a militant was also killed, while ammunition were recovered.

“Troops deployed at Ikang border patrolled Ikot Offing Ambai in Akpabuyo local government area discovered militants shrine and also apprehended the chief priest of the group with empty box of ammunition at another shrine at Ekpri Ebutong Estate in Bakassi,” he said.

“During anti-militancy operation, troops of sector 4 raided Efut Esighi forest and killed a notorious militant popularly known as Okon Iyo while he was trying to escape.

“Troops discovered the dead body of one of the Bakassi Strike Force militant who was earlier engaged in Efut Esighi but escaped with gun injuries. His body was seen in a bush close to the main road in Effionsa, Bakassi local government area.

“Meanwhile, troops also raided the compound of a suspected member of Bakassi Strike Force; Otobong Sunday Essien, at Road 27 Resettlement Center Bakassi.

“A Motor Bike was recovered from his compound. In addition, troops intercepted a Passat wagon car owned by a suspected Bakassi Strike Force militant known as “G1”. He is the sentry Commander of the group.”

He added that an attack on an oil facility in Delta state was foiled.

“On 31 October 2016, troops foiled vandalism of NPDC Well Head at Kokori Oil Field, Oil Mining Lease 30 located at Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State,” he said.

“Operation DELTA SAFE will continue to ensure sanity of the Niger Delta Region as law abiding members of the public go about their legitimate daily businesses.”

Troops kill four suspected kidnappers in Bauchi.

Posted on October 12, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of the 33 Brigade Forward Operations Base, Burra in Bauchi State killed four suspected kidnappers on Monday.

According to a statement by the Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, in Abuja on Tuesday, the troops killed the suspects after they laid ambush for them following a tip off.

Usman said the incident happened at Sabon Kura village in Ningi Local Government Area of the state.

Usman said: “The kidnappers were on their way to Diwwa village for kidnapping.

“The troops engaged the kidnappers and after exchange of gunfire, four kidnappers were confirmed dead.”

He said three Dane guns, one cutlass, three handsets, some quantity of hard drugs and local charms were recovered from them.

Boko Haram: Troops kill three female suicide bombers

Posted on October 7, 2016 by Staff Reporter

At about 12.25pm, three female suicide bombers attempted to attack a military location at Gwoza, Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State one Thursday.

The suicide bombers came through Pulka axis.

They were sighted by members of the vigilante group from a distance and alerted the troops about the impending catastrophe.

The very observant vigilante also noted that the women looked suspicious, walking awkwardly, with bulging hijab and distinct from other female farmers.

When the suicide bombers noticed that they were being observed, they hurriedly ran towards troops, aiming to detonate their explosives on them.

The troops immediately killed two of the female suicide bombers, while the other ran back into the bush but was pursued.

Unfortunately, a soldier sustained injuries due to the impact of the explosion.

The wounded soldier is currently receiving treatment at a military medical centre and he is in stable condition.

JUST IN: Nigerian Troops intercept and neutralizes suicide bomber.

Posted on October 6, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Today at about 6.30am, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE intercepted and neutralized a male suicide bomber at the outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno State.

The terrorist who attempted to infiltrate through the troops forward defences at Jidari Polo general area, came in through Alidawari village about 4 kilometres ahead of Jidari strapped with heavy Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) vest.

The vigilant troops on sighting him laid in wait for the intruder when vehemently refused to stop despite several warnings and challenges. A marksman neutralized the suicide bomber.

The combined team of Nigerian Army and Nigeria Police Explosive Ordinance Device (EOD) safely detonated the IED laden vest on the suicide bomber.

Thank you for your kind cooperation.

Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman
Acting Director Army Public Relations

Troops Capture Mallam Fatori, Northern Borno-Army

Posted on September 21, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigeria Army says as part of Operation Gama Aiki, troops of operation Lafiya Dole and Multinational Joint Task Force captured Mallam Fatori a border town in the northernmost part of Borno State.

Army spokesman Colonel Sani Usman in a statement early Wednesday morning said the town was taken by troops after a fierce battle closely covered by air operations.

However, He said the militants reinforced around border with Niger Republic, adding that: “This was while the troops were consolidating on this success.”

He also said the troops killed several of the Boko Haram militants in the resulting encounter and subsequently had to withdraw to a vantage position.

“The operation is continuing,” the Army spokesman said.

Credit: dailytrust

Troops neutralizes female suicide bomber in Borno (VIEWER DISCRETION)

Posted on September 12, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army has said it has killed a female suicide bomber who was carrying an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at Kara Cattle market axis, Dikwa Local Government Area, Borno State.

In a statement on Monday by Army Spokesperson, Col. Sani Usman, the incident which happened on Sunday led to minor injuries on two soldiers and a Civilian JTF member.

Usman said the troops had suspected the suicide bomber and insisted that she stopped but she refused to.

According to Usman, one of the soldiers shot at her and the IED exploded just as she fell to the ground.

The statement also revealed that some of the Boko Haram remnants now pose as mad men in order to gain access to some locations especially in Maiduguri.

It urged Nigerians to be vigilant and security conscious especially during the Eid festivities.

The statement read, “On Sunday 11th September 2016, evening, a suspected female suicide bomber was seen approaching troops check point located at Kara Cattle market axis, Dikwa, towards Antul and Mukdala, Dikwa Local Government Area, Borno State.

“She was challenged from afar by the vigilant duty sentry, she refused to stop claiming to be coming from Monguno to see her parents in Dikwa.

“Troops sensing the direction of approach was suspicious and abnormal, fired a shot at her and the sentry gallant sentry was proven right as she was carrying a Person Borne Improvised Explosive Device (PBIED) which exploded with a loud bang, killing her instantly and causing minor injury on 2 soldiers and a Civilian JTF assisting them.

“The injured soldiers and the civilian have been treated and have continued with their duties.

“This incident has shown that there are a few of the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists that are determined to carry out criminal acts to create panic and insecurity in some areas.

“In a related development, there is also very reliable information that remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists now disguise or pretend to be mad men or women in order to gain access to some locations especially in Maiduguri.

“Consequently, all should be very wary of any seemingly mentally unstable or mad men or women found wandering and report same.

“Therefore, it is imperative for all to be more security conscious and vigilant especially during the Eid festivities and public holidays.

“The public are further enjoined to report any suspicious persons or movement to the security agencies.”

Crocodile Smile: Troops Destroy 74 Illegal Refineries, Kidnappers Camp In Niger Delta

Posted on September 9, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigrrian Army said on Friday that its troops of 2 Brigade, conducting field training exercise code named “Operation CROCODILE SMILE” have within the last 48 hours discovered and destroyed 74 illegal refineries in Niger Delta.

The Army said also that quite a number of militants and kidnappers camps in various parts of Rivers and Bayelsa States using swan buggy and other specialists equipment were destroyed.
A statement signed by Col Sani Usman giving details of the operations said “On Wednesday, 7th September 2016 troops of Sub-Sector Bravo in response to a tip off on the presence of suspected kidnappers at Akupoku community, carried out a raid at the location.

“But no arrest was made as the kidnappers have fled the area.

“However, the team also raided Ke community, at the verge of the Atlantic ocean where they discovered and destroyed an illegal refinery. “The troops recovered and destroyed 3 large cooking pots and 20 tanks filled with illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO).

“Similarly, another set of troops also discovered and destroyed another illegal crude oil refinery at Bile.

“Items recovered and destroyed include 12 large refining cooking pots, “The troops exercising along Abonnema axis were also informed of the presence of suspected kidnappers at Abakrikri Fishing Pot, they swung into action and carried out cordon and search operation, however, no contact or arrest was made.

“The troops of 130 Battalion also raided suspected kidnappers camp at Awukiri.

“Although no contact was made, the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle empty magazine, 6 face masks, 1 machete and several empty shells of expended ammunitions.The troops destroyed the camp.

“The troops have also intensified search for the kidnappers nests and other criminal elements camp for clearance”.

http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/crocodile-smile-troops-destroy-74-illegal-refineries-kidnappers-camp-niger-delta/

Troops Block Boko Haram’s Supply Routes

Posted on September 3, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) are tightening the noose round the neck of Boko Haram in the Lake Chad area, according to indications yesterday.

The troops have blocked all supply routes to the insurgents in the build-up to the next stage of liberating the over 200 Chibok girls abducted two years ago by the terrorists.

The blockade covers arms, ammunition and other logistics, highly placed sources said.

The number of MNJTF troops deployed in the Lake Chad Basin by Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad and Niger Republic had hit 10,500 by yesterday.

The MNJTF forces are receiving intelligence and reconnaissance assistance from France, Britain and the United States.

Chibok girls: Troops block Boko Haram’s supply routes

Turkey Denies Reaching Ceasefire With Kurdish Forces

Posted on August 31, 2016 by Staff Reporter

A Turkish minister has said that his country does “not accept” US claims that its military has reached a ceasefire deal with Kurdish fighters in northern Syria.

The statement came after US officials said that Turkish-backed Syrian rebels and Kurdish forces had agreed on a temporary pause in fighting in northern Syria.

The US has been warning the sides to focus on fighting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group elements there.

“We do not accept in any circumstances … a ‘compromise or a ceasefire reached between Turkey and Kurdish elements’,” Omer Celik, EU affairs minister, told the state-run Anadolu news agency in a live interview on Wednesday.

“The Turkish republic is a sovereign, legitimate state.”

US officials had claimed on Tuesday they received assurance that all parties involved were going to stop shooting at each other and focus on the ISIL threat.

“It is a loose agreement for at least the next couple of days and we are hoping that will solidify,” Colonel John Thomas, spokesman for the US Central Command, was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.

Thomas said Turkey and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), made up largely of Kurdish fighters from the People’s Protection Units (YPG), had opened communications with the US and between each other “with the goal of limiting hostilities”.

Thomas called the reported agreement between the two groups “encouraging”.

The White House also praised the apparent halt in fighting between anti-ISIL forces in Syria.

“The US welcomes the overnight calm between the Turkish military and other counter-ISIL forces in Syria,” Josh Earnest, the White House spokesman, said on Tuesday.

“It continues to encourage these moves as a way to prevent further hostilities and loss of life between all counter-ISIL forces operating in the area.”

Polat Can, the YPG representative to the global anti-ISIL coalition, also said the forces had reached a truce with Turkish-backed Syrian rebels.

“We have reached a temporary ceasefire between the Jarablus Military Council and the occupying Turkish army in the Jarablus area under the supervision of the global coalition,” he said on Twitter.

“These conflicting reports could be a further indication of mounting tension between Turkey and the US about how to deal with northern Syria,” said Al Jazeera’s Hashem Ahelbarra, reporting from Gaziantep on the Turkish side of the Syria-Turkey border.

“We have been talking to [Free Syrian Army] factions operating on the ground. They are basically saying that as far as they are concerned there is no truce.

“They told me that they have been shelling some areas under YPG control north of Manbij.

“Their strategy basically is to continue the fight until they push YPG across the Euphrates River.”

Turkish forces launched last week a two-pronged operation in the town of Jarablus inside Syria against ISIL fighters and the YPG, shelling more than a dozen targets.

The US has long been trying to avert an escalation in violence between Turkish-backed Free Syrian Army forces operating in and around Jarablus and YPG fighters in the same region.

Both sides are backed by the US in their fight against ISIL, but Turkey, a key NATO ally, views the YPG as a threat because of its close links to the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK), which has been fighting Turkish forces for the past three decades.

On Monday, Turkish-backed Syrian rebels said they were advancing towards Manbij, a city on the West Bank of the Euphrates, captured earlier this month by Kurdish forces.

NAF Destroys New Boko Haram Camp, Repel Attack On Troops

Posted on August 30, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Tuesday destroyed a new camp being operated by the Boko Haram sect between Malam Fatori and Kangarwa in northern Borno State.

The attack which was conducted overnight followed an intelligence report that survivors of a similar NAF Mi-17 helicopter attack on August 20 had converged at the new location.

According to the Director, NAF Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Ayodele Famuyiwa, the post-strike Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) mission also revealed that surviving Boko Haram insurgents converged at the new location.

This was followed up by series of follow-up Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions that led to the latest strike.

Famuyiwa said: “The air assault is expected to further degrade the capability of the insurgents while fostering the creation of the necessary enablement for own ground troops to operate.”

http://thenationonlineng.net/naf-destroys-new-boko-haram-camp-repel-attack-troops/

Troops Raid Bunkerer, Militant Camps In Delta

Posted on August 30, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have raided a suspected oil bunker and militant camps at Afiagbene in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta but nobody was found.

Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the troops carried the raid in collaboration with the Navy.

Usman said the raid was part of the field training exercise on the day 4 of the ongoing operation nicknamed: “Operation Crocodile Smile” in the Niger Delta.He said the troops, however, recovered two generators, one locally made double barrel gun, one dane gun, three live cartridges and two pumping machines.

Others, he said, were one 32 inches LG television, one Kenwood amplifier and 4 X 50 litres of a liquid suspected to be crude oil at Ayakoromo junction.

Credit: NAN

Nigerian Army Ends ‘Operation Crocodile Smile’ Exercise In Niger Delta

Posted on August 30, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Commander, “Operation Crocodile Smile’’ of the Nigerian Army, Brig-Gen. Benbella Raji, has reassured residents in the Niger Delta assurance of their safety.

Raji gave the assurance during a training to enhance the operations of the military.

The Commander, who is from the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Edo, also said that the training would help to improve the security situation in the Niger Delta.

“This exercise was launched by the Chief of Army Staff a few days ago.

“Today, we move round the streets to give assurance to the good citizens of Delta, especially in Warri, that the army is here for their security.

“There are rules of engagement that guide exercises of this nature which are also meant to strengthen civil-military relations.

“As we speak, there is free medical outreach provided by the Nigerian Army near the Olu of Warri palace.

“We urge people in Niger Delta communities not to entertain any fear, we guarantee their safety,’’ he said.

The training, involved the movement of troops and equipment through Udu, Uwvie and Warri South Local Government Areas.

Some residents of Warri and its environs were apprehensive upon sighting the troops and equipment.

“Operation Crocodile Smile’’, which ended on Monday, was, however, peaceful and successful.

It will be recalled that the Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai, had on Aug. 27 declared the military training, codenamed “Operation Crocodile Smile’’ open in Sapele.

Troops Kill 27 Boko Haram Terrorists

Posted on August 18, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Soldiers killed 27 Boko Haram insurgents and arrested 10 others in Northern Cameroon, the Commander of a Regional Army Force said on Thursday.

“A Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) set up by Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Benin and Cameroon to fight Boko Haram across borders, ambushed a group of the terrorists on Wednesday near the town of Fotokol.

“It is located close to the border with Nigeria.No soldiers were killed during the clashes, according to Dobekreo,’’ the MJTF Commander, Bouba Dobekreo said.

Boko Haram poses a steady threat to communities in the north-east of Nigeria and has also launched offensives in neighbouring Chad, Niger and Cameroon.

Credit: NAN

Troops Kill Suspected Cattle Rustler, Armed Bandits In Katsina

Posted on August 13, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 35 Battalion, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army on Friday killed a suspected cattle rustler and armed bandits on Tsambe-Fafare road, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.

This is contained in a statement issued by Col.Sani Usman, Acting Director, Army Public Relations on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the troop were in a joint patrol with Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Katsina State, under operation “SHARAN DAJI”
He said the operation followed information received from well patriotic citizens that three gunmen were sighted on motorcycles in the area.Usman said that the team swung into action and pursued the suspected armed bandits towards Dumburu forest in Zamfara.

The spokesman said during the encounter, the team killed one of the suspected cattle rustlers and armed bandits, while the other two escaped with gun shot wounds.

He said that items recovered included an AK-47 rifle with registration number 1985PS6288, additional AK-47 rifle magazine and 3 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.

In a related development, a combined team arrested a suspected notorious cattle rustler and armed bandit, Abubakar Mohammed and his boys, Ana’s Gora and Bello Sani.

He said items recovered from them included 49 cattle and 25 sheep.

Usman said that the special raids were carried out along Faskari-Sheme-Mairuwa road, Katsina State.

http://guardian.ng/news/troops-kill-suspected-cattle-rustler-armed-bandits-in-katsina/

Troops Nab Insurgents Planting Explosives On Military Supply Route

Posted on August 12, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army says troops on operation Layifa Dole arrested four fleeing Boko Haram members discovered to be planting bombs on troops supply route.

A statement on Friday from Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, said the arrest was possible following information provided by a detained suspected Boko Haram militant, Lawan Abbai.

He added that the troops carried out Mine and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) clearance at Gombori, which was along the troops main supply route.

He said the troops located and recovered two heavy IEDs buried in the ground by suspected remnants of Boko Haram insurgents.

He said in the process of recovering the deadly IEDs, the troops intercepted four fleeing suspected Boko Haram insurgents who said they were on their way to surrender to troops.

He said on preliminary investigation, they were identified as confirmed Boko Haram members planting IEDs along troops routes by their arrested colleague, Lawan Abbai.

He also said the troops rescued five women and a baby from Boko Haram insurgents in the same general area.

Credit: dailytrust

Troops Nab Another Boko Haram Kingpin In Borno State

Posted on August 3, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The troops of Operation Lafiya Dole, with the assistance of vigilantes, on Tuesday identified and arrested a high profile suspected Boko Haram terrorist, Mohammed Mohammed Zauro, at Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State while on routine checks.

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, in a statement on Wednesday, said preliminary investigation shows that the suspected terrorist kingpin was arrested as he was trying to flee to Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, from Sambisa forest.

He said the troops also recovered a Gionee brand of mobile telephone handset and a fake SAIE/JIBWIS identification card to perfect his escape and the sum of N7,900.00k.

He stated that the troops also intercepted another suspected Boko Haram terrorist, Lawal Aboi, along Damboa-Bale road.

“According to him, he was on his way to voluntarily surrender to the troops in Damboa because he was tired of fighting for no just cause,” he said.

Credit: Thisday

Indonesia Bans Police, Troops From Playing Pokemon Go

Posted on July 20, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Indonesia has ordered police not to play Pokemon Go while on duty and will soon ban military personnel as well, officials said Wednesday, as the defence minister warned the smartphone game was a security threat.

Indonesians have joined the frenzy for the game, which has become a worldwide hit since launching two weeks ago and has has already been blamed for a wave of crimes, traffic violations and complaints in cities around the globe.

Despite Pokemon Go not yet being officially available in Indonesia, many have downloaded it illegally and taken to the streets to hunt for virtual “pocket monsters”.

But its popularity has caused concern among the security establishment’s top echelons, with officials suggesting its high-tech capabilities could be put to use in spying.

“Spying can come in different forms,” said hardline Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu.

“At first, it (Pokemon Go) appears cute but the longer you see… it is just not right.”

The military will soon issue an order banning all personnel from playing Pokemon Go during work hours as it seeks to protect high-security sites, military spokesman Tatang Sulaiman told AFP.

The order will note concerns that devices being used to play the game can send data over the Internet to other countries.

The announcement came after a Frenchman was briefly detained this week when he accidentally wandered onto a military base on Java island as he played Pokemon Go.

Police officers across the country were already sent an order on Tuesday banning them from playing the game while on duty, a spokesman said.

“We are worried that police officers may become addicted and we don’t want that because a police officer’s duty is to serve the public. The job requires hard work and concentration,” said national police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar.

He also said police had been instructed to be on heightened alert for terror threats. Earlier this month, a suicide bomber attacked a police station in the city of Solo, injuring one officer.

Pokemon Go uses smartphone satellite location, graphics and camera capabilities to overlay cartoon monsters on real-world settings, challenging players to capture and train the creatures for battles.

Credit: Guardian

Troops Recover Viagra, Other Sex Drugs From Killed Boko Haram Militants

Posted on June 1, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army on Friday said its troops on Thursday night ambushed and killed some fleeing Boko Haram terrorists from the Sambisa forest.

A statement issued by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Sani Usman, said the terrorists were ambushed at their crossing point along Maiduguri-Bulabulin-Damboa road.

It quoted Mr. Usman as saying the troops recovered several items, including arms and ammunition from the terrorists who were fleeing to Alagarno general area.

“Troops of 81 Battalion and 251 Task Force Battalion, both of 25 Task Force Brigade, staged a deliberate ambush against Boko Haram logistics elements on motorcycles and bicycles.

“The elements were crossing from Sambisa forest to Alagarno general area around Nyaleri yesterday night.

“During the operation, the troops killed two Boko Haram terrorists, wounded several others and recovered some arms, ammunitions and other items.

“Specifically, they recovered one AK-47 Assault rifle, one hand grenade, four AK-47 magazines loaded with ammunition,” the statement said.

He said the troops also recovered assorted food items, sex enhancing drugs such as Viagra, foot wears and bathroom slippers.

Credit: PremiumTimes

Troops Arrest Niger Delta Avengers’ Men

Posted on May 30, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Ten suspected members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) – the group of militants smashing oil facilities in the Niger Delta – have been arrested in Delta State.

Besides, a military patrol team prevented some gunmen believed to be its members from attacking pipelines in Bayelsa State.

The Army yesterday paraded the 10 suspects in Benin, the Edo State capital, yesterday.

The suspects were arrested at about 1:40am on Saturday in Oporaza community, Warri South-West Local Government Area, following a cordon-and-search operation conducted in the community.

The 4 Brigade Commander, Brig. –Gen. Farouk Yahaya, who paraded the suspects, explained that there had been several cases of sabotage by suspected militants and vandals in Delta State since January 1, and warning and threats “to shut down all operations” in the sector.

He listed the arms and ammunition recovered from the suspects as: 28 detonator cords (also known Detonator 33), one pistol, two empty pistol magazines, 196 rounds of 7.62 special ammunition, one round of nine-millimetre ammunition, a live cartridge and five daggers.

Also recovered were 15 handheld radio sets, 18 phones, 203 SIM cards belonging to three major network providers, five swimsuits, two headlamps, a laptop, two ipads and a camera.

There were also seven wraps of substances suspected to be hemp, five speedboat throttle cables, six pairs of hand gloves, N23,000 cash and a cheque book.

Gen. Yahaya said that although investigation would reveal the true identity of the suspects, recent explosions carried out by the Niger Delta Avengers suggested that the suspects may not be unconnected to the group.

He added: “Within the period under review, you can see that the Niger Delta Avengers have claimed virtually all acts of criminal activities against oil and gas and they continue threatening a shutdown of the whole sector. So, most likely, they (suspects) will be the people; who else would they be?”

On the speculation that the militants may have used charms to evade arrest, Gen. Yahaya said: “Whatever a person wants to use, he can use it. But I know that God is always on the side of the truth.

“We are not worried by voodoo. It did not stop the suspects from being arrested and others that have been arrested before now.

“Operations that led to these arrests and recoveries were conducted professionally, guided by our mandate, operation orders, code of conduct and rules of engagement. Our operations are strictly targeted against perpetrators of all criminal acts in our area of responsibility and not innocent citizens,” he added.

Credit: Nation

Troops Kill 30 Boko Haram Insurgents

Posted on April 20, 2016 by Staff Reporter

More than 30 Boko Haram insurgents were killed when they ambushed an Army contingent in Kareto, Borno State, the Army said yesterday.

The attack by about 100 Boko Haram members on Monday occurred during patrols by the 113 Battalion.

The ground operation by the Army and a multinational force, with air cover by the Air Force, is to raid the North on a village-by-village basis, capture Boko Haram terrorists and free the captives.

Cameroonian Gen. Bouba Dobekreo said this month that the ground forces were put in place to eradicate Boko Haram threat in Nigeria.

In clashes last Friday, 34 suspected Boko Haram members were killed and 455 captives freed in Borno State.

In Monday’s battle, 24 soldiers were injured, said Col. Sani Usman of the Nigerian Army.

Military sources said: “Scores of Boko Haram insurgents escaped with gunshot wounds.”

Yesterday, the Army reported a separate incident – a Boko Haram attack on the convoy of Brig.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu, the Acting GOC (General Officer Commanding) in the Borno city of Bama. One soldier was killed and two injured.

Insurgents were killed, arms and ammunition were recovered. Gen. Ezugwu was not injured.

More than 20,000 people have been killed by Boko Haram terrorists and 2.3 million displaced since the group began violent campaign in 2009.

Credit: Nation

Troops Uncover Boko Haram’s Underground Armoury

Posted on April 18, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered large cache of arms and ammunition from the Boko Haram insurgents in Gursum, Borno State.

The Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj. Gen. Lucky Irabor, said this in the text of a press briefing on the recovered arms and ammunition, forwarded to our correspondent that the troops recovered the items following a tip off.

He said that the troops and some members of the civilian JTF were mobilised for a clearance operation at Borgozo-Alargana following the intelligence, where the items were recovered.

According to him, the items recovered included 36 boxes of .51mm calibre, 5 x 20 Lyra beefcake mixture of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, large quantity of 7.62mm (Special), ammunition and one 81mm mortar tube.

He added that the troops also recovered one Toyota Hilux, a generator and several motorcycles.

Irabor said that the patrol team also cleared some remnants of the Boko Haram who were dislodged from Alagarno and were in three camps at Kadari, Abu Fayima and Gursum.

He appealed to Nigerians especially in the three states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe to continue to provide useful information to the security agencies to enable them to complete the clearance of the insurgents from all their hideouts in the area.

Credit: Punch

Troops Rescue 14 Women, Children In Terrorist Camp

Posted on April 11, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of the Nigerian Army yesterday in yet another raid on another Boko Haram camp rescued 14 women and children held under captivity in a village in Borno state.

Cache of arms and ammunitions were also recovered as soldiers under the 155 Task Force Battalion conducted a patrol to Nimila village yesterday.

Spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Col Sani Kukasheka Usman, said the troops had “rescued 14 persons from the clutches of Boko Haram terrorists and recovered weapons. The rescued persons were mostly women and children.

He said the troops also recovered 3 guns; a single barrel and two double barrels, three motor cycles in addition to two mobile telephone handsets.

Credit: Leadership

Troops Clear More Terrorists Out Of Madube & Cikin Njubul

Posted on March 28, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 114 Task Force Battalion, 28 Task Force Brigade, in conjunction with some vigilantes in their area of operation, have carried out clearance operation of reported remnants of Boko Haram terrorists along Bita-Madube Ciki-Njubul axis.

According to the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, during the advance, two soldiers unfortunately stepped on a buried Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that seriously injured one of the soldiers.

Nevertheless, they continued the advance, had contact with the terrorists and cleared them out of Madube Cikin.

In the process, they killed four insurgents, destroying 2 vehicles and 2 motorcycles belonging to the terrorists. The troops also recovered 2 cylinders, 1 AK-47 rifle, 3 boxes of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 2 bicycles and bags of grains.

The troops also rescued 54 persons held hostage by the Boko Haram terrorists. The released hostages are being screened while the wounded soldiers have since been evacuated for proper medical care.

Credit: ChannelsTv

Troops Kill Five Terrorists, Rescue 180 Hostages In Borno

Posted on March 24, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 7 Division Garrison and 112 Battalion of Nigerian Army have on Wednesday killed five Boko Haram terrorists; with the rescue of 180 hostages held in five communities during a six-hour clearance military operations in Borno state.

The cleared communities include Menari, Bulamari, Baale, Maafa, Zangebe and Kaltaram of Mafa Local Government Area of the state.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman in the statement issued Thursday in Maiduguri, said that the successful clearance of Boko Haram remnants in Mafa, was assisted by some Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in the Mafa-Dikwa axis.

Usman in the statement also said that during the six-hour clearance operations, five terrorists were gunned down, before the cattle of the rescued hostages were retrieved in Giltimari and Baale villages.

The statement reads in part: “During troops operations yesterday, five terrorists were killed. They also rescued 180 persons and their cattle held hostages by the terrorists in Giltimari and Baale communities of Mafa.”

He said the rescued captives, are undergoing military screening, before they are moved to undisclosed resettlement camp in the state.

Credit: Guardian

Boko Haram: Troops Kill 58 Terrorists, Lose A Soldier

Posted on March 23, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army said, yesterday, that it lost one of its soldiers and killed no fewer than 58 terrorists, following a clearance operation to rid insurgents from their hideout at Musari.

The Army in statement signed by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said: “In continuation with the clearance of the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists, troops of 153 Task Force Brigade, 5 Brigade, Monday, had an encounter with terrorists at Musari village.

“During the clearance operations, a soldier paid the supreme price, while the troops killed 58 terrorists and recovered two hand grenades, 52 motorcycles, and several bags of foodstuffs such as beans, onions, sweet potatoes and guinea corn, as well as cartons of fish.”

Credit: Vanguard

Troops Kill More Boko Haram Fighters, Suicide Bomber

Posted on March 21, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian military has killed more Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) fighters and intercepted a suicide bomber in parts of Borno State.

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Sunday that the troops of 7 Brigade ambushed and killed seven BHT at Dawashi early Sunday morning.

He said that the troops that laid in wait at the terrorists suspected crossing point engaged them on sight, “killed the seven terrorists and recovered a Peugeot station wagon loaded with 2,010 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) packed in 67 Jerri cans, uniforms, some materiels and Improvised Explosive making Devices (IEDs).

He listed others items recovered to include, dry cell batteries, AK-47 rifle, tools and fish.

In a related development, Usman said that the troops of 25 Task Force Brigade ambushed and killed a BHT suicide bomber at Kumala and Musafanari villages general area last night effectively saving lives and properties of innocent citizens.

He said: “The troops who on receipt of information, laid an ambush for the terrorist at suspected BHT crossing point, engaged the terrorist who was obviously on suicide mission, from Sambisa general area.”

Credit: Thisday

Troops Kill Wanted Boko Haram Terrorist In Borno

Posted on March 11, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The troops of the Nigerian Army have killed one of the 100 most wanted Boko Haram terrorists in the North East.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Friday that that the Boko Haram commander was killed in an ambush by the troops of the 7 Multinational Joint Task Force Brigade, Baga, and 118 Task Force Battalion, along Daban Masara.

Usman said that Masara was used by the Boko Haram insurgents to convey logistics for their operation.

He said that the Boko Haram leader, listed as number 95 in the first list of the most wanted 100 terrorists released by the Nigerian Army, sustained injuries which led to his death later.

Usman added that other members of the group escaped with gunshot wounds.

The Acting Army Spokesman said the troops also recovered arms and ammunition and some jerrycans containing fuel and motor cycles from the insurgents.

“Troops of 7 Multinational Joint Task Force Brigade Quick Response Group stationed in Baga and 118 Task Force Battalion, sprang an ambush along Daban Masara axis used by Boko Haram terrorists to convey logistics.

“At the encounter, one of the suspected wanted Boko Haram terrorists’ leaders who is serial number 95 on the first Nigerian Army wanted list of 100 Boko Haram terrorists leaders, was fatally wounded in the exchange of fire,”the statement read.

Credit: Punch

Troops Clear Boko Haram From Doksa, Dure

Posted on March 7, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army yesterday said troops fighting insurgency in the North-east had cleared remnants of Boko Haram militants hiding in Doksa, Biu LGA and Dure district in Borno State.

A statement from army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, said troops of the 231 and 331 Battalions with some Special Forces from the 3 Division cleared the terrorists hiding in Doksa general area.

Colonel Usman added that during the clearance, the troops killed two militants and recovered military uniforms, one General Purpose Machine Gun, one AK-47 rifle and two dane guns. He added that the troops also captured one militant alive, and gave his name as Musa Abdullahi. Usman said the troops encountered two Improvised Explosive Devices buried along their route of advance which they successfully detonated. “They also recovered two pick-up vans, 25 motorcycles, 30 bicycles and grinding machines as well as a large quantity of foodstuff,” he added.

The spokesman said apart from burying Improvised Explosive Devices, the militant often contaminate sources of water in the area. He said on Saturday, soldiers of 121 Task Force Battalion, 26 Task Force Brigade, carried out clearance operations at Dure district. Despite stiff resistance from the terrorists, the troops cleared Dure 1, Dure 2, Jango, Dibiye and other suspected Boko Haram hideouts within the general area of the district. He said three soldiers sustained injuries from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and were immediately evacuated for medical treatment and were in stable condition.

He added that another combined team of units under the 26 Task Force Brigade based in Gwoza same day cleared Amdaga Makaranta and Amdaga Madachi of remnants of Boko Haram terrorists. During the encounter, two Boko Haram fighters were killed. Usman said the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Brigadier General Victor Okwudili Ezugwu, noted that prior to the clearance operation, Dure 1 and 2 were Boko Haram strongholds in the mainland of the Sambisa forest.
“The operation further revealed the new and desperate strategy of Boko Haram terrorists, hiding their logistics, especially grains for the rainy season and the use of hand-held radios primed with Improvised Explosive Devices as booby-traps,” he said.

Credit: DailyTrust

Agatu Massacre: Nigeria Deploys Troops; To Ban Cattle From Villages, Cities

Posted on March 3, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian government says it is preparing a legislation to prohibit pastoralists from allowing their cattle roam in villages and cities, following the massacre of hundreds in a farming community in Benue State by armed herdsmen.

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh, said Thursday that the government was working on measures to stop the invasion of communities by herdsmen.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Mr. Ogbeh said that invasion and massacre of the indigenes by herdsmen was no longer acceptable to the government.

He said that a formation of the Nigerian Army had been deployed to the communities to restore peace.

“Yesterday, I spoke with the Ministers of Defence and Interior and they assured me that they have deployed a military formation in Enugu to move in and restore peace in Agatu.

“Today, I will also be speaking with Mr President about this issue to ensure that the problem is solved once and for all,” he said.

The minister gave assurance that government was taking lasting steps to prevent cattle from grazing into peoples’ communities and farmlands.

Credit: PremiumTimes

Troops Foil Boko Haram Attack On IDP Camp, Kill 26

Posted on February 25, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Military troops have killed 26 suspected members of dreaded Boko Haram sect in an attempted failed attack on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno state. The IDP camp in Dikwa with a population of over 40,000 refugees has witnessed series of attacks by insurgents recently. Unfortunately, sources said, a soldier, civilian JTF member and some IDP members also lost their lives in the fresh encounter that took place in the early hours of Wednesday.

In an email message to our Correspondent, Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman said, “Following dislodgement of Boko Haram terrorists camps in the border towns of Kumshe and Talala by joint operations of Nigerian and Cameroonian forces, the terrorists made a futile attempt on Dikwa early today. Col. Usman said, from all indications, the terrorists aimed at causing havoc at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp located at Dikwa. However and unknown to the fleeing Boko Haram terrorists, the Armed Forces Special Forces in blocking positions decisively dealt with the terrorists; killing many, recovered vehicle, arms and ammunitions. “Unfortunately, we lost a soldier and a member of the local vigilante (Civilian JTF) during the encounter, while 3 soldiers and 4 Internally Displaced Persons sustained injuries. A military vehicle was damaged by a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) suicide bomber. “The troops recovered 26 bodies of the Boko Haram terrorists, while others escaped with

“Unfortunately, we lost a soldier and a member of the local vigilante (Civilian JTF) during the encounter, while 3 soldiers and 4 Internally Displaced Persons sustained injuries. A military vehicle was damaged by a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) suicide bomber. “The troops recovered 26 bodies of the Boko Haram terrorists, while others escaped with

“The troops recovered 26 bodies of the Boko Haram terrorists, while others escaped with gun shot wounds, destroyed 3 VIED, 1 MBIED and 2 Gun trucks. The gallant troops recovered 1 Gun truck mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun, 1 Dushka Anti-Aircraft Gun, 1 Browning Anti-Aircraft Gun, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) Tube. Others include 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), 4 AK 47 Rifles, 3 RPG Bombs, 36 Hand Grenades, 1 Smoke Grenade and 8 AK-47 rifles magazines. “The troops also recovered 236 rounds of 12.7mm ammunitions, 396 rounds of 7.62mm ammunitions and 101 rounds of 762mm (Special), ammunitions. The casualties have seen been evacuated while the troops have been pursuing those terrorists that escaped with gunshot wounds”. The statement added.

“The troops also recovered 236 rounds of 12.7mm ammunitions, 396 rounds of 7.62mm ammunitions and 101 rounds of 762mm (Special), ammunitions. The casualties have seen been evacuated while the troops have been pursuing those terrorists that escaped with gunshot wounds”. The statement added.

Credit: Vanguard

Troops Arrest Mastermind Of Agip Pipelines Bombing

Posted on February 10, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of the Joint Force in the Niger Delta, Operation Pulo Shield, say they have arrested the suspected mastermind of the bombing of pipelines belonging to Nigerian Agip Oil Company in Bayelsa State.

Agip oil pipelines located in Orukari, Golubokiri and Kpongbokiri communities of Brass Local Government Area of the state had been bombed on January 28.

The dynamite attacks on the pipelines had resulted in massive spillage of crude oil from the Agip pipelines into the sea and fishing camps.

But on Wednesday, the Commander, OPS, Maj.-Gen. Alani Okunlola, in a statement by the Coordinator, Joint Media Campaign Centre, Col. Ado Isa, said their troops arrested the mastermind of the attack.

Okunlola gave the name of the mastermind as Prince Alvin Cockman Oyegun, alias ‘Commander Abula’.

The OPS commander said the suspect was arrested at Idema community in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa State.

He said the suspect allegedly masterminded the attack on the Agip manifold located at Gbobokiri in Brass LGA of Bayelsa State on January 28, 2016, which led to oil spillage in the area.

Okunlola said the manifold that was attacked was a 24-inch manifold that conveyed crude oil and gas.

He added that the hunt for other suspects and accomplices was ongoing.

The OPS commander warned all miscreants engaged in the destruction of oil installations to desist from such criminal acts.

Credit: Punch

Troops Rescue 103 Hostages From Boko Haram Terrorists (SEE PHOTOS)

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 151 Task Force Battalion of 21 Brigade rescued 103 civilians held hostage by Boko Haram terrorists.

Also, troops of AHQ Special Forces on patrol to Yole came across Boko Haram Terrorist’s camp at Bulagana, cleared it and rescued 40 more civilians.

The Nigerian Army disclosed this via its Twitter handle. See photos below:

How Troops Killed 20 Suspected Terrorists, Rescue 370

Posted on January 23, 2016 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army says troops fighting Boko Haram militants in Borno have killed over 20 terrorists and freed 370 persons held hostage by the sect members.

The Deputy Theatre Commander of the ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’, Major General Leo Irabor, told reporters in Maiduguri on Friday that the soldiers also intercepted suicide bombers who attempted to infiltrate the state capital.

He added that two of the alleged suicide bombers blew themselves up while the third, who targeted soldiers at the checkpoint, was gunned down.

Major General Irabor also said that three rifles and 41 motorcycles were destroyed in Dikwa a town in Borno State.

“Terrorists sighted troops and abandoned their families behind and those that they abandoned behind include five women and three children. The women are currently undergoing interrogation.

“In all these encounters, the Nigerian Air Force provided close air support and surveillance cover to the ground troops, he told reporters.

Credit: ChannelsTV

Troops Kill 49 Insurgents, Rescue 150 Captives

Posted on December 18, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army on Thurday said its troops, deployed for the counter-insurgency in the troubled North-east, killed 49 Boko Haram insurgents within the last one week in a series of assaults in Borno State.

Also during the same period, the army said 150 persons who were being held by the insurgents as human shields in confrontation with them were rescued.

It also revealed that several arms, ammunition and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered in the battle with the insurgents.
Addressing a press conference in Maiduguri, the Theatre Commander of the military counter-insurgency operation in the North-east, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj. Gen. Yusha’u Abubakar, said the operation was carried out in various hideouts of the Islamists in the Bama-Fulka and Alagarno axis of Borno.

He said: “It is important to announce that our gallant troops conducted various operations along Bama-Fulka and Alagarno areas of Borno State, which yielded fruitful results in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram elements.

“During the episode, the troops had an encounter with some terrorists, who suffered serious casualties.
“In the Alagarno axis, 15 insurgents were gunned down, while 34 others were killed along Bama-Fulka Road. The troops have also rescued 150 people, mostly old men and women, as well as children.

“The captives who were abducted from their homes by the terrorists, were being held as human shields.”
He added that recent successes recorded by the troops followed the serious setback suffered by the terrorists after losing their major enclaves.

“Let me make it clear that Boko Haram has been degraded and weakened by the military after a series of assaults, and the morale of our troops has been very high.

“Nigerians are very impressed by the performance of the task force in recent times. The military has no time to waste but to crush the remnants of the terrorists and move forward,” Abubakar said.

Credit: ThisDay

Troops Foil Female Suicide Bombers’ Plan In Borno State

Posted on December 16, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Nigerian troops and the Borno Youths Empowerment, otherwise known as Civilian JTF on Wednesday foiled planned attacks by four suicide bombers in the outskirt of Maiduguri.

A military source said at about 7.30am four female suicide bombers were intercepted by troops and the Civilian JTF, ahead of a checkpoint about 25km away from Maiduguri the capital of Borno State.

A spokesman for the military, Colonel Sani Usman, said preliminary investigation revealed that the suicide bombers were earlier observed trying to bypass a military checkpoint through a close by village before they were ordered to take the right road.

Few metres to the checkpoint, however, one of the bombers swiftly detonated her vest while the troops gunned down the other three suicide bombers before they could detonate their explosives.

Colonel Usman said one of the Civilian JTF died while four other persons sustained various degrees of injuries.

“The Nigeria Police Explosive Ordinance Device team in the area safely detonated the unexploded Improvised Explosive Device carried by the other suicide bombers,” he further stated.

Credit: ChannelsTV

Troops Destroy More Boko Haram Camps, Frees 31 Hostages

Posted on December 15, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops operating in Bama, Borno state yesterday cleared Boko Haram terrorists out of Aulari general area located within the Sambisa forest, clearing 4 camps located within the area that includes Faldan, Kidiziromari, Kuroshini, Kurumari and Ngulda.

According to a statement from the Acting Director Army Public Relations Col. Sani Usman, one Boko Haram terrorist was killed while trying to escape and about 31 persons were rescued from the terrorists.

During the attack, the troops discovered stockpile of farm produce in metal drums, sacks and underground storage facilities. Other items recovered included several bicycles and motorcycles.
Some of the farmlands yet to be harvested were also set ablaze by the terrorists. A wooden rifle used for training and practice by the terrorists was also retrieved.

In a related development, troops of 7 Division Garrison conducted 8 fighting patrols along Leje Axis. The troops cleared the area and about 15 other villages around Leje. They include Khadadamamari, Ladin Buta, Hilmari, Kashauri, Keshan Ngala, Aiwa, Masu Kura, Mabirni, Grza 1 and 2, Mashuari, Dubenge, Tauba and Majande.

The troops also pursued and destroyed 2 Boko Haram terrorists on motor cycles. Troops have also blocked all known routes to prevent Boko Haram Terrorists from transporting livestock across borders. All these are with a view to stopping the Boko Haram from fueling their terror machines through cattle rustling and illegal trading.

Troops Clear Boko Haram Terrorists From Aulari

Posted on December 14, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops operating in Bama axis on a fighting patrol today cleared Boko Haram terrorists out of Aulari general area located within the Sambisa forest.

The troops cleared all the 4 camps located within the area that includes Faldan, Kidiziromari, Kuroshini, Kurumari and Ngulda. One Boko Haram terrorist was killed while trying to escape and about 31 persons were rescued from the terrorists.

The troops discovered stockpile of farm produce in metal drums, sacks and underground storage facilities. Other items recovered included several bicycles and motorcycles. Some of the farmlands yet to be harvested were also set ablaze by the terrorists. A wooden rifle used for training and practice by the terrorists was also retrieved.

Credit: Vanguard

Troops In Hot Chase Of Escaping Terrorists– Army

Posted on December 2, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army has said that its troops are pursuing escaping terrorists and also moving to further block any incursion by the terrorists in the North East. This is contained in a statement issued by the acting army spokesman, Col. Sani Usman on Wednesday in Maiduguri.

Usman said locations recently attacked by terrorists have also been reinforced and the troops were poised to contain any eventuality. He said the coming weeks would be critical in the operation geared toward destroying all known locations of the terrorists.

” As we enter the month of December, it is important to state that we have also entered a very critical part of the fight against terrorism in our country.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to reiterate its total commitment and determination to the war against the Boko Haram terrorists.
“Consequently, we solicit for the continued support, cooperation and understanding of all Nigerians in this regard,” the statement quoted Usman as saying.

He said troops in the recent operation in Gulak recovered a Toyota Hilux, several arms and items from the insurgents.
“Some of the arms include one PKM gun, one General Purpose Machine Gun, three AK-47 rifles, one Rocket Propelled Grenade tube and one Rocket Propelled Grenade bomb.

“Other recoveries include one charger, seven boxes of 7.62mm link, one GP 340 Hand Held Radio, four boxes of 7.62mm X 54mm ammunition, three Anti Riot Hand Held Grenade, as well as 30 Cleaning Kits, two Packets of Artillery Primers and 97 pieces of Zela fuse.”

Credit: Vanguard

Give Boko Haram ’Final Push’, Nigerian Army Chief Urges Troops

Posted on November 9, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, on Monday urged troops in the Northeast to remain focused in their final push to end insurgency in the country.

Mr. Buratai, who visited the front line unit of 113 Task Battalion in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno, commended the troops for the successes recorded so far.

“You have done well and you must maintain the tempo.

“You must be on the offensive and waste no time in giving a final push in ending Boko Haram.’’

He assured the soldiers that there was no cause for alarm over their salaries and allowances, stressing that the issue was being sorted out.

“There may be a little delay, but everything is being sorted out,’ Mr. Buratai said.

The Army chief was also at the 118 Task Force Battalion, where he urged the troops to sustain the final offensive against insurgents.

Credit: NAN

Troops Clear Nine Boko Haram Strongholds In Borno

Posted on November 6, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 115 Task Force Battallion under 28 Task Force Brigade have, in a major boost, cleared nine more Boko Haram terrorists strongholds around Lassa axis of Borno State.

A statement by a military spokesman, Colonel Tukur Gusau, said the troops cleared Lassa, Muthavo, Dagu Kumabza, Isge, Unworo Zangore, Kilekasa And Pumpum while on clearance operations between November 3 and 5.

During the offensive, four Boko Haram terrorists met their waterloo in the hands of gallant troops of the Nigerian Army.

Some of the terrorists fled, abandoning their weapons. The military spokesman said they left seven den guns.

Credit: ChannelsTV

Troops Destroy 5 More Boko Haram Camps

Posted on November 5, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Nigerian Army disclosed last night that it has destroyed another set of 5 terrorist camps operated by the Boko Haram group in Marte Local government area of Borno state .

It will be recalled that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai debunked the Governor’s assertion that some communities in the Local government area were still been controlled by the terrorists group insisting that all Nigerian communities had been liberated.

During the confrontation to clear the camps, the army said its troops killed two Boko Haram terrorists, recovered two dane guns, one double barrel and 12 motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

A statement detailing the army operation, signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman said, “In efforts to continually dominate, recover territories and clear all Nigerian territory of Boko Haram vestiges, the advancing troops of 5 Brigade Task Group have today (yesterday) cleared 5 more terrorists camps at Hausari and Baranga in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.

“The troops during and encounter with Boko Haram terrorists at the camps killed 2 terrorists and recovered 2 Dane guns and a Double Barrel gun, while 12 motorcycles abandoned by some fleeing terrorists were destroyed.

“In addition, a suspected female member of the terrorists group was captured and is currently undergoing interrogation.

“It will be recalled that troops of 5 Brigade had some time last month cleared and destroyed twenty terrorist’s camps at Kerenowa general area.

“In a related development, troops of 28 Task Force Brigade on patrol between Bitta –Yamteke in Borno State to block Boko Haram terrorists fleeing from Lagaran Fulani to enter Sambisa forest, discovered 2 planted Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and successfully detonated them.

Continuing the statement said, “We wish to state here that, while striving to stamp out terrorists from Nigerian territory, the troops remain committed to ensuring that they cleared and secure all known Boko Haram terrorists’ camps and enclaves so that no terrorist infiltrates and return to any of the recovered areas.”

Credit: Vanguard

Troops Kill 4 Suicide Bombers, Recover Bombs, Cash

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops based on a tip off, ambushed and killed 4 suspected Boko Haram terrorists on a suicide bombing mission to Gubula, Madagali Local Government Area, Adamawa State.

Apart from 2 AK-47 rifles recovered, the troops also recovered some Unexploded Ordinances (UXOs), mortar bombs and cash sum of N153,385k was retrieved.

The Nigerian Army also appeals for continued vigilance, security consciousness and above all cooperation with the military and security agencies to enable them successfully defeat the terrorists.

Troops Clear More Boko Haram Camps, Kill 30, Rescue 338 Captives (Viewer Discretion)

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 28 Task Force Brigade Nigerian Army deployed at Bitta and Pridang carried out a successful raid on suspected Boko Haram terrorists camps at Bulajilin and Manawashe villages along Bita and Damboa road at the fringes of Sambisa forest yesterday. The troops were able to killed 30 Boko Haram terrorists.

The unit also rescued 338 persons that were held captive by the terrorists in the enclaves. The rescued persons which comprised of male 8, female 138 and children 192, have since been evacuated to Mubi. Troops also recovered arms and ammunitions during the raid operation which include 1 General Purpose Machine Gun and 2 Dane Guns, 150 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO), 6 boxes of 7.62mm (NATO) and 3 cutlasses.

Army Chief Visits Newly Deployed Troops In Borno

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Yusuf Buratai, on Monday visited the newly deployed troops of the 29 Task force Brigade at Benisheik and Gamdu towns of Kaga Local Government Areas of Borno State in north-east Nigeria.

While addressing the two brigades, the Chief of Army Staff told the troops, who are “better armed and trained”, to defeat the Boko Haram, describing the insurgents as ‘ill equipped’.

The Army Chief said the Nigerian Army had no excuse not to defeat the Boko Haram terrorists and assured the soldiers that they would get every necessary support from the government.

He stressed that their deployment to the area was strategic to the success of the operation against the dreaded Boko Haram terrorists.

“With the morale of the troops I have seen so far, you are good to go. I want to congratulate all of you for being part of this operation because Nigerians are watching and waiting for you to finish up these criminals called Boko Haram.

“Your deployment here is strategic to the success of this operation and you have to be alert and focused at all times,” Buratai cautioned.

The Army Chief assured the troops that all their logistics problems were being addressed and urged them to be loyal and obedient to their superior authorities without which no meaningful progress would be achieved.

Credit: ChannelsTV

Troops Destroy 20 Boko Haram Camps

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 5 Brigade Nigerian Army, weekend, destroyed all Boko Haram camps and enclaves at the border towns of Kerenowa and Chikun Gudu as well as their contiguous villages in Borno State.

Giving details of the operation, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman said: “During the operation which is ongoing, troops discovered and destroyed over 20 well-fortified terrorist camps in the general area of Kerenowa.

“The camps include some at the gateway to Kerenowa, Gumada and Dogon Gida. In addition, the troops have also discovered that to evade aerial reconnaissance and bombardment, the terrorists have dug twin tunnels to conceal their facilities and routes in and out of the camp.

“Among facilities discovered were training areas equipped with instructional and training materials that include wooden guns, among others.

“The troops have also cleared Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, along the road linking Marte, New Marte and Kerenowa.

“It is apparent that Boko Haram terrorists lacked the will to fight as they are in obvious disarray, abandoning their camps fleeing and leaving behind vehicles, solar panels used to power devices, food and other logistics, beddings, various IEDs-making devices, cables and cords.

“The advancing troops’ morale remains very high and they exude confidence and zeal to destroy all known Boko Haram camps along their axis of advance.

“We still reiterate our call for citizens to remain confident in the ability of our troops to eliminate all remaining vestiges of the terrorists before the year runs out in line with Presidential directives.

“Citizens are also requested to kindly provide useful and credible information to the military about any known terrorists or sympathizers.”

Credit: Vanguard

Troops Kill 30 Boko Haram Insurgents, Foil Suicide Attack In Borno

Posted on October 19, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Over 30 members of the dreaded Boko Haram sect were killed in a gun duel with Nigerian troops assisted by local vigilantes yesterday morning.

Nigerian troops with the assistance of local vigilantes had laid an ambush for the insurgents between the border villages of Kirchinga/Imirsa which came under Boko Haram attacks in recent times leading to the death of innocent residents.

A local vigilante operative who participated in the campaign told our reporter that following intelligence report about the movement of the Boko Haram insurgents, an ambush was laid which resulted in the killing of many Boko Haram members.

“Following information about the movements of the Boko Haram we got, we decided to lay an ambush in the early hours of Sunday. Our efforts yielded results as we succeeded in killing over 30 of the insurgents after a fierce gun duel.

“We confiscated many weapons from the invading terrorists, including AK 47 assault rifles, bows and arrows and other dangerous weapons,” the source said.

The onslaught against the insurgents followed increased attacks on parts of Madagali local government leading to the death of three soldiers and the abduction of one senior military officer alongside his operational vehicle.

Read More: leadership

Troops Arrest Boko Haram Terrorists In Plateau State

Posted on October 19, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Operation Save Haven (OPSH), deployed to restore law and order in Plateau State, on Sunday, has said that in keeping with the tradition of updating residents within its area of operational responsibility with developments as they occur, they have arrested members of the terrorist group and other criminals in various parts of the state.

OPHS, in a statement made available to newsmen in Jos on Sunday, said while the high profile suspects had been relocated out of town for investigation, other suspects will be handed over as soon as investigation is concluded on their cases for prosecution by appropriate security agencies.

The statement, which was signed by it media officer, Captain Ikediche Iweha, said members of the public are being requested to continue to maintain high vigilance especially around places where a large number of persons will be gathered.

According to him, park operators and managers, market unions, mosques, churches, schools and relaxation spots operators, are all enjoined to put in place security measures around their vicinity.

In other developments, following the report of the rustling of cattle belonging to one Alhaji Sale Bala of Lugare village, in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area on the 11 October, 2015, personnel of OPSH engaged the rustlers in a hot pursuit with exchange of fire, forcing the rustlers to abandon the loot. The cattle numbering 52 cows and 22 rams were shared into smaller groups to enable faster escape of the rustlers.

The statement added that the recovered cattle were handed over to the Alhaji Sale Bala in the presence of the Secretary, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in Barkin Ladi. In the same vein, 14 cows belonging to Mr. Nanbol Nimyel of Pinau village, in Wase Local Government Area of the state, were also recovered from rustlers who carted away the cows at gun point.

“The rustlers were overpowered by superior fire power in the process of recovery, and the cows handed over to the chairman of Miyetti Allah cattle breeders association, Wase branch, for onward return to Mr. Nanbol”.

Read More: dailytimes

Boko Haram: US Sends Troops, Drones To Cameroon

Posted on October 15, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The United States is sending 300 US troops along with surveillance drones to Cameroon to bolster a West African effort to counter the Boko Haram sect, US officials said.

In a notification to Congress, President Barack Obama said an advance force of about 90 military personnel began deploying on Monday to Cameroon, with the consent of the Yaounde government.

The troops will “conduct airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations in the region,” Obama said.

“These forces are equipped with weapons for the purpose of providing their own force protection and security, and they will remain in Cameroon until their support is no longer needed,” he added

US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the troops would provide intelligence to a multi-national task force being set up to fight Boko Haram, composed of troops from Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Benin Republic.

Read More: leadership

Another Boko Haram Fuel Dump Busted In Maiduguri

Posted on October 2, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Following a tip-off by well-meaning citizens, troops on Wednesday discovered and raided yet another Boko Haram fuel dump at Abbaganaram in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Army has reported.

“During the operation, one person, Musa Abba, was arrested and the following items were discovered and confiscated: 11 drums of AGO, 1 empty drum, 192 of 25 litres jerrycans (out of which 70 were loaded with AGO, PMS and DPK), a Toyota bus and 1 Peugeot car. Others include a motorcycle and an air conditioner.

“The fuel depot was used to stockpile Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants by Boko Haram terrorists and their equally heartless collaborators for onward movement to the terrorists’ camps in Sambisa Forest.

“Over time, we have been exhorting the public especially the residents of the North-eastern part of the country which has been mostly affected by the acts of the Boko Haram terrorists to cooperate fully with the military and the security agencies”, a statement signed by Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, the acting director, Army Public Relations revealed.

Read More: leadership

Another Boko Haram Kingpin Nabbed As Troops Gun Down Notorious Terrorist

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Staff Reporter

The Nigeria Army has announced the capture of Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum whom it describes as a high profile member of the Boko Haram group.

Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman stated that Damagum is currently undergoing interrogation while another member of the group was gunned down on Monday afternoon.

“Troops of 3 Division have arrested a suspected Boko Haram terrorists group kingpin, Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum.

“He was tracked down and arrested at Damagum town, Yobe State yesterday.

“A high profile Boko Haram terrorists’ group member, he has led Boko Haram members on various attacks especially in Yobe State.
“The suspect is currently undergoing interrogation with a view to arraign him soon,” he stated.

He also gave insight into the operation that led to the Army’s killing of an unnamed terrorist from whom soldiers allegedly recovered an AK-47 rifle.

Read More: thenationonlineng

Troops Block Boko Haram’s Escape Routes At Lake Chad

Posted on September 29, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Defence Headquarters, DHQ, yesterday, announced total blockade of all possible escape routes of Boko Haram terrorists at the Lake Chad Basin, by the Multi National Joint Task Force, MNJTF.

This is even as the Nigerian military has vowed to intensify its joint assaults on terrorists until it killed the last unrepentant terrorist in the North East.

It would be recalled that the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai, few days ago announced blockade of access routes in and out of Sambisa forest, with the aim of routing the insurgents.

DHQ, in an operational update through its Director of Defence Information, DDI, Colonel Rabe Abubakar, said the blockade of the Lake Chad Basin area had become imperative to prevent terrorists from escaping or infiltrating the country and its neighbours. It said that MNJTF has already deployed its 7th Brigade to the area for the purpose.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces have renewed commitment to continue the ongoing coordinated joint assaults on Boko Haram in the North East until the operation of the guerrillas are totally impaired and collapsed.

“To this end, the coordinated operation of the security forces in the contested area designed to dismantle the technical pre-eminence and capabilities of the terrorist group would intensify because the masquerading guerrillas should not be given any breathing space to regroup and re-strategise their campaign…”

Read More: nationalmirroronline

Scores Of Boko Haram Terrorists Surrender To Troops

Posted on September 14, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Scores of Boko Haram terrorists have continued to surrender to the Nigerian troops even as more have indicated willingness to lay down their arms.

Report gathered say that many of the terrorists were moving out of their Sambisa haven which has received continuous pounding from the air as a result of airforce reconnaissance flight that exposed their hideouts.

A statement by the Acting Director of Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman noted that the action of the terrorists, meant to escape collateral damage, was due to the new offensive strategies put in place for ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ by the military high command.

According to the statement, “the new strategies being employed by the military have started yielding positive results with scores of terrorists surrendering to troops and many more willing to surrender.

“The strategies employed included sustained offensive operations, pre-emptive air strikes by the Nigerian Airforce and routes blocked by ground troops, all geared towards constricting and snuffing out the Boko Haram terrorists.

Read More: vanguardngr

Troops Recapture Northeast Border Town of Gamboru Ngala

Posted on September 1, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Nigeria’s army said it recaptured the northeastern town of Gamboru Ngala, which borders Cameroon,from Boko Haram Islamist militants.

“Troops are now busy with clearing and mopping up,” the army said on its Twitter account Tuesday.

The Nigerian army said in July there was no area in the northeastern state of Borno that was still under the control of Boko Haram, after a regional military push.

Read More: bloomberg

Commission To Deploy 8,700 Troops To Crush Boko Haram

Posted on August 26, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Member countries of the Lake Chad Basin Commission are to deploy 8,700 troops to stem the activities of Boko Haram insurgents in the region.

Director of Defence Information, Col. Rabe Abubakar, said in statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday that the decision arose from a Meeting of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Ndjamena, Chad, recently to finalise arrangements for the deployment.

It said resolutions from the meeting reinforced President Muhammadu Buhari’s earlier directive to his security chiefs to end the insurgency in three months.

The statement said Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin, led other defence chiefs to the meeting aimed at eliminating insurgency in the region.

“Olonisakin visited Chad Republic where he joined other regional military chiefs to deliberate on agreement to accelerate the deployment of the 8,700 strong force.

“The Chiefs of Defence Staff from the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), member countries met in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad Republic and finalised details of deployment of the joint force.

“Gen. Olonisakin has been working round the clock towards actualising the presidential directive to end Boko Haram terrorist activities within three months.”

Read More: NAN

Two Soldiers Lost As Troops Intensify Offensive Against Boko Haram

Posted on August 22, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Soldiers engaged in Operation Lafiya Dole on Friday sustained its ground and aerial offensive against the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists in parts of the North-east, clearing land mines, destroying their camps and killing many in the process.
Unfortunately, they also lost two gallant soldiers with two others injured through landmines explosives planted by the retreating terrorists that have increasingly adopted guerilla tactics.

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman in a statement yesterday confirmed that the troops have also liberated some towns and villages in Borno State.

As part of the continued offensive against the Boko Haram terrorists, Usman said troops of 7 Brigade have as at yesterday entered and cleared Gudumbali town in Guzamala Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State.

“During the operation, quite a number of the terrorists were killed; their weapons and equipment were destroyed. The troops are currently doing clearance operations in the general area,” he said.

Read More: www.thisdaylive.com

Troops Bombard Fleeing Boko Haram Fighters

Posted on August 20, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Troops of 26 Task Force Brigade in Gwoza, Borno State, on Wednesday evening, engaged Boko Haram terrorists fleeing Sambisa forest following continued aerial bombardment by the Nigerian Air Force.

The fleeing terrorists in seven pick-up vans and some motorcycles mounted with assorted weapons such as rocket propelled grenades and anti-aircraft guns were decisively dealt with, killing quite a number of them.

The troops also destroyed their vehicles, weapons and motorcycles. They also recovered a vehicle, one motorcycle and two AK47 rifles and large quantities of 7.62mm NATO and 12.7mm ammunitions.

Many Terrorists Killed As Troops Lay Ambush In Sambisa

Posted on August 19, 2015 by Staff Reporter

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Following the sustained air and ground offensive against remnants of Boko Haram terrorists still holed up in bunkers and other hideouts inside Sambisa Forest by airforce fighter aircraft, Nigerian troop’s yesterday succeeded in downing scores of the terrorists who attempted to flee the forest into neighbouring communities.

In this regard, Troops of 26 Task Force Brigade in Gwoza, Borno State, on Tuesday evening engaged Boko Haram terrorists fleeing Sambisa forest as unrelenting aerial bombardment by the Nigerian Air Force continued.

According to a statement signed by Acting Director, Army Public relations, Col. Sani Usman, “The fleeing terrorists in 7 Pick-up vans and some motorcycles mounted with assorted weapons such as Rocket Propelled Grenades and Anti-Aircraft Guns were decisively dealt with, killing quite a number of them”.

“The troops also destroyed their vehicles, weapons and motorcycles. They also recovered a vehicle, 1 motorcycle and 2 AK47 riffles and large quantities of 7.62mm NATO and 12.7mm ammunitions”.

“Troops have intensified their patrols and offensive actions against the terrorists in the area” he added.

Credit: vanguardngr

Chad, Niger Troops Retake Nigeria Border Town From Boko Haram

Posted on April 1, 2015 by Staff Reporter

Soldiers from Chad and Niger on Tuesday drove Boko Haram Islamist militants from a northern Nigeria border town they have occupied since late last year, Chad’s government spokesman said.

Chad’s Communications Minister Hassan Sylla Bakari said this time there was no doubt who controlled the town. “We took Malam Fatori this evening. It’s an important victory in the fight against Boko Haram,” he told Reuters.

Read More: yahoo

France Sends More Troops To Help Fight Boko Haram

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Staff Reporter

France will boost its military presence in the troubled Sahel region of Africa where jihadist groups operate to support the fight against Boko Haram, Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters, he said France would “slightly increase” the number of soldiers operating under its Barkhane anti-jihadist operation in the Sahel and reduce armed forces in the Central African Republic “to give us the means to support” the fight against Boko Haram.

Under Barkhane, France already has some 3,000 troops in the region but Paris has insisted it will limit itself to “indirect support” of the widening African effort to combat the growing Boko Haram insurgency.

Read More: Vanguard