Troops sustain clearance operations, crush more terrorists and recover arms in Northeast

Troops of Operation FIRE BALL have killed five terrorists and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition as they intensify clearance operations in the Northeast theatre.

In a statement, Acting Director Defence Media Operations, Brig.-Gen Bernard Onyeuko disclosed that, following actionable intelligence on Boko Haram criminals activities, troops of 222 Battalion in conjunction with elements of Borno State Civilian Joint Task Force conducted an aggressive fighting patrol to the general area of Margumari village.

”The highly motivated troops made contact and immediately engaged some marauding Boko Haram criminals lurking in the area.

”During the brief but decisive encounter, 4 Boko Haram criminals were neutralized while one FN Rifle, one AK 47 Rifle, 2 FN Rifle magazines and 4 AK 47 Rifle magazines were captured from the fleeing criminals.

”Additionally, 29 Rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 39 Rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 2 Motorcycles, Motorcycle repair tools and one Tecno phone were also captured.

”Earlier, on 5 December 2020, troops of 144 Battalion conducted a robust clearance patrol to Yafa, Kirchinga and Shuwarin general areas. Troops made contact and engaged the criminals at Yafa.

”In the ensuing gun battle, one Boko Haram criminal was neutralized while several others are believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds.” He added.

General Onyeuko while commending the troops for their doggedness and resilience urged residents to provide actionable intelligence to troops and assured that the Armed Forces will continue in their resolve to rid the region of remnants of the criminals.