Troops neutralise terrorists, rescue abducted victims in North-East operations

Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded major operational successes across the North-East, including the neutralisation of terrorists, rescue of abducted victims, recovery of weapons and explosives, and arrest of suspected criminal collaborators.

According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Army on Friday, troops supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) conducted coordinated offensives in the Valle, Ashigashiya, and Gakara areas, where they engaged suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.

The military said three insurgents were neutralised during separate encounters, while others fled under heavy gunfire. Troops also recovered communication devices, including a radio set and mobile phone.

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In another operation along the Ngoshe–Amuda corridor, troops rescued an 8-year-old boy abducted during the March 3 attack on Ngoshe community in Borno State. The victim, identified as Abubakar Mublagha, was medically examined and reunited with his family.

Troops also rescued a 20-year-old Fulani man, Dahiru Ahamdu, during operations around Uvaha along the Gwoza–Limankara axis. The victim reportedly escaped from terrorist captivity following intense artillery bombardments on insurgent camps within the Mandara Mountains.

The military disclosed that troops acting on intelligence also recovered explosive devices abandoned by fleeing terrorists in the Magza area of Buni Gari. Recovered items included RPG bombs and mortar bombs, which were safely secured by Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams.

In a related development, a suspected collaborator identified as Kuti Muhammad, said to be a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force, was arrested over alleged links with terrorist groups.

Troops also arrested three armed robbery suspects in Garin Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area, recovering mobile phones, illicit substances, charms, jewellery, cash, and a locally made firearm.

Additionally, four suspected cattle rustlers and terrorist collaborators were apprehended at Kwaya Kusar Market with six rustled cattle.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations to defeat terrorism and restore peace and security across the North-East region.