From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Army reports that its troops killed five terrorists during a raid on an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) enclave in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
The army stated that several terrorists surrendered to troops, who recovered bombs, arms, ammunition, and rustled cattle. They also arrested several criminal suspects during other operations.
“On 12 August 2024, troops conducted a raid operation on an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist enclave in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. Troops neutralised five terrorists and recovered two rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, two Dane guns, one RPG bomb charger, one AK-47 rifle magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62 x 54 mm ammunition, six motorcycles, and assorted medications.
“Meanwhile, following sustained offensive operations against terrorist groups in the North East theatre, 44 Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered to troops deployed at Bama, Dikwa, and Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno State.
“In Plateau State, troops arrested a notorious cattle rustler, Mallam Maawuya Shuaibu, at Mararaban Kantom in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The suspect, who has been on the watchlist of security agencies in connection with criminal activities around Barikin Ladi, Riyom, and Mangu Local Government Areas, was apprehended after vigilant troops responded to credible intelligence on his illicit activities. The troops recovered 32 rustled cows from the suspect.
“In Bayelsa State, troops conducted raid operations on suspected criminal hideouts in Korokorosie Community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. During the operation, troops arrested Mr Donald Emason and recovered one revolver pistol and two locally fabricated guns concealed by the suspect.
“Similarly, troops deployed at Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State arrested a suspected gun runner, Mohammed Bello, 33. The suspect, who was picked up from his hideout, confessed to being one of the couriers supplying arms and ammunition to Bello Chikidawoje’s kidnap syndicate operating in the general area.
“These successful operations demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating terrorism, criminality, and other security challenges across the country.”