Army dislodges terrorists, liberates Alkaleri communities in Bauchi, recovers AK-47 rifle

From Jude Owuamanam, Jos

Troops of the 3 Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba Barracks, Jos, have said they recorded a major operational breakthrough under Operation BUGUN KARKANDA III by dislodging armed terrorists from Mansur Village and surrounding settlements in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The terrorists had laid siege to the community, driving away residents.

In a statement issued on Thursday to newsmen in Jos, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Victor Olukoya, said the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle and restored control to government forces.

The statement said the decisive offensive targeted flashpoints where non-state actors had attempted to impose dominance, significantly degrading their capabilities and disrupting criminal networks in the vulnerable region.

The spokesman said the troops executed a deliberate and well-coordinated advance into identified terrorist positions.

“Following a deliberate and well-coordinated offensive, troops of 3 Division rapidly advanced into identified flashpoints, establishing dominance over key areas and successfully dislodging armed terrorists who had attempted to assert control over Mansur Village,” the statement read.

“A thorough clearance of the village led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, further weakening the terrorists’ operational capacity.

“Troops have since consolidated gains and intensified aggressive fighting patrols alongside confidence-building patrols across Alkaleri LGA to sustain presence, maintain law and order and prevent resurgence.

“The operation forms part of intensified efforts to safeguard residents and enable the return of normal life, following its formal launch by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folusho Oyinlola.

“The renewed military posture has yielded tangible results: disrupting criminal elements, rebuilding public confidence and creating a safer environment for citizens to resume socio-economic activities without fear.

“Stabilisation operations continue, with efforts focused on facilitating the safe return of displaced inhabitants to Mansur Village and other parts of the LGA.”

Oyinlola, while reiterating the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable communities throughout the Division’s area of responsibility and ensuring enduring peace and security in the state, commended the troops’ performance and charged them to sustain momentum, stressing the imperative of denying terrorists any freedom of action.