By: Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigerian Army said, yesterday, that its troops in a series of decisive operations, have dealt crushing blows on terrorists, neutralising several high-profile fighters and recovering lethal weapons, including rocket bombs and a significant cache of ammunition.

A statement by Army headquarters said: “The operations further crippled the adversary’s freedom of action across the country.

“On September 29, 2024, a high-intensity raid was launched on Boko Haram/ISWAP strongholds in Ajiri and Mastari villages of Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.

“The troops, leveraging superior firepower, decimated four notorious fighters. A meticulous sweep of the area uncovered two Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs, two AK-47 magazines, 28 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, 25 rounds of 7.62x54mm light machine gun ammunition, and a light machine gun barrel.

“In another encounter at Banki Junction in Bama Local Government, troops also neutralised another terrorist.
“In Plateau State, troops acting on precise intelligence conducted a raid operation that led to the capture of two notorious kidnappers, Isah Abdullahi (24) and Mujahid Musa (23), in the forested mountains of Panyam. Initial investigations reveal their involvement in a series of violent attacks on villages within Mangu Local Government Area.

“Items recovered during the operation include two motorcycles, three mobile phones, and various paraphernalia. In a related operation, troops apprehended a notorious arms dealer, Kabiru Zaki, in Bukuru town of Jos South Local Government Area, alongside another suspect, linked to a recent murder in Brazongo village, Bassa Local Government Area.

“Meanwhile, in South Eastern Nigeria, troops have engaged IPOB/ESN terrorists in a ferocious firefight at Lilu, in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, after the terrorists attempted to ambush the troops with Improvised Explosive Device.

“Overwhelmed by superior firepower, the militants retreated into the surrounding forests, leaving behind a Closed Circuit Camera and components of Improvised Explosive Devices.”