Soldiers Burst Terrorists’ Strong Holds, Rescue Kidnapped Students, Others

NIGERIAN ARMY TROOPS BURST TERRORIST STRONG HOLDS, RESCUE KIDNAPPED STUDENTS

In aggressive offensive operations against terrorism and insurgency, Nigerian Army troops have obliterated yet another terrorist stronghold, successfully rescuing kidnapped students,and seizing a significant cache of arms and ammunition. Troops also eliminated some insurgents, while some others were captured alive.

On 12 September 2024, acting on reliable intelligence, troops stationed in Kaduna State launched a highly coordinated operation aimed at rescuing abducted persons from violent extremist camps. Engaging in an intense firefight at Chigbolu village, Kachia Local Government Area, the troops overpowered the terrorists, forcing them to flee and abandoning their captives. A thorough sweep of the area led to the rescue of 13 victims, comprising 6 males and 7 females, as well as the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 87 rounds of 7.63mm ammunition, 4 magazines, a locally fabricated rifle and the sum of ₦192,220.00. Additionally, 5 solar panels, 5 mobile phones, dry rations, and clothing items were recovered. The rescued victims have been promptly evacuated to 1 Division Medical Services and Hospital for medical attention.

In another decisive operation, troops in Kachia Local Government Area have intercepted two notorious terrorist logistics suppliers, Mallam Usman Waikili and Salisu Idris, at Kagarko village. The troops confiscated the sum of ₦1,306,700.00, three SIM cards, 2 mobile phones, 3 national identity cards, 8 ATM cards, 2 Moniepoint POS machines, an MTN MiFi and other items from the suspects.

In a separate operation in Suleja, Niger State, troops stormed a terrorist hideout, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire. The troops’ overwhelming firepower led to the neutralization of 3 terrorists, while 3 others, identified as Mallam Halalu, Mallam Suleiman, and Mr. Musa, were captured alive. The suspects led the troops to a hidden armoury, where 3 AK-47 rifles, 121 rounds of 7.62mm (special)ammunition, and the sum of ₦4,079,000.00 were recovered.

These decisive operations, which culminated in the rescue of abducted persons and the dismantling of terrorist networks, reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to eliminate banditry and terrorism, marking a significant victory in the ongoing fight for peace and security across the nation.

The Chief of Army Staff has commended the troops and urged them to sustain the tempo of the offensives across all theatres.