Below is a statement recently released by the Nigerian army about its
latest operations to end the Boko Haram menace in northeastern Nigeria:
The Nigerian Army has commenced strikes deep inside Sambisa forest which
is believed to be the remaining strong point of the Boko Haram
terrorists.
Various units of the Army have advanced deep into the forest clearing
most of the camps therein, rescuing persons held captive, arresting some
terrorists and destroying most of their weapons and equipment.
Advancing troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air
Force were able to clear and destroy Boko Haram terrorists camps at
Shuari, Adembe, Yerimari Kura, Yerimari Gana, Gonin Kurmi, Kore, Mainya
Kore, and Lopere. Additionally, the Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher
Regiment has destroyed the terrorists camps at Dure, Dure Kore, Jokwa,
as well as several other camps.
The troops recovered foodstuff, motorcycles, flags, Improvised Explosive
Making Devices (IED) materials and military uniforms. Among other
discoveries were the terrorists tunnels, weapons and equipment. The
soldiers also recovered 2,000 cows rustled from various persons over
time and rescued women and children held captives by the Boko Haram.
While the animals have been moved to Kanwuri, the rescued persons have
been evacuated and are being given all the necessary support and
assistance.
During the encounter with the terrorists at Yerimari Gana a number of
Boko Haram terrorists were killed and some suspected terrorists were
arrested who are being interrogated. However, a soldier sustained
gunshot wound and fracture on the leg.
Similarly, while advancing to destroy Nefari terrorists camp, troops
discovered and cleared 3 IEDs laid along the route. The camp was
successfully cleared and troops have continued their advance while a
blocking force has been deployed to prevent infiltration and possible
escape by the terrorists.
Unfortunately during another encounter with the terrorists along the
axis of advance, 3 soldiers made the supreme sacrifice, while an officer
and 2 soldiers were wounded in action.
It is instructive to note that the troops morale is very high and being
conscious of their set objective, they are unrelenting in their
determination to defeat the Boko Haram terrorists.
In a related development, troops have also destroyed Boko Haram
terrorists camps Bulagaije and Disa, Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno
State and recovered motorcycles, Dane guns and ammunitions.