Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole deployed in the Cashew Plantation around Bille Shuwa and Alikaranti villages have quashed an attempt by Boko Haram terrorists to penetrate Maiduguri metropolis yesterday at about 8.10 pm.
The insurgents met with stiff resistance of troops who killed 6 of the insurgents and neutralized 7 suicide bombers in the encounter.
The troops also recovered 2 AK 47 rifles and 2 Magazines.
The Nigerian Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams have detonated two IED vests recovered from the killed suicide bombers beaten by the troops and unable to force their way into the metropolis.
The insurgents retreated and callously resorted to attacking locals who, reacting to the encounter were fleeing in confusion from Bille Shuwa and Alkaranti villages with Person Borne Improvised Explosive Device.
Read Also:
- DG NILDS Hails Former Nigerian Leader, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on Birthday Anniversary; Describes him as a selfless leader of all times.
- Why Lagos is Strategic to Nigeria’s National Security, Defence Architecture – Amb Buratai
- Fight Against Oil Theft – DHQ Dismisses Tompolo’s Allegation against Nigerian Navy as “Laughable”.
Sadly, 15 persons including a soldier have so far been confirmed dead in the encounter, while about 83 persons who suffered varying degrees of injuries are receiving due medical attention.
Troops are still on the trail of the insurgents. More details will be communicated as further clarifications are made.
Meanwhile, a 14 year old Boko Haram insurgent Rawa Babagana has surrendered to troops of Operation Lafiya Dole.
The insurgent escaped from the Boko Haram enclave in Kekeno in the northern fringes of the Lake Chad Islands. He is currently been profiled.
It is clear that the remnants of the Boko Haram Terrorists are hell bent on remaining relevant by attacking soft and vulnerable targets and therefore calls for collective vigilance by all security stakeholders and members of the public.
Members of the general public are therefore urged to be watchful and discern strange persons and suspicious activities in their communities and report to the security agencies.
Colonel Onyema Nwachukwu
Deputy Director Public Relations
Theatre Command Operation Lafiya Dole