The Multi-national Joint Task Force (MNJTF) on Wednesday disclosed that its operations to rid the Lake Chad Basin Commission Countries of Boko Haram terrorism, has resulted in the killing of 59 terrorists, capture of 5 others, killing of 3 suicide bombers and the destruction of 6 gun trucks belonging to the group.
The MNJTF has also destroyed 3 vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices; one each of 81 and 82mm mortars and bombs was captured, one 122mm Artillery gun and its prime mover captured, fuel dump, food stores and communication platform destroyed while Gashigar, Arege and Metele communities have been cleared of terrorists.
However, the Multi-national Task Force within the period of the operation, recorded 22 soldiers Killed in Action, 75 wounded, a Scorpion tank and truck each damaged.
Making the disclosures during a briefing to strategic partners at N’djamena and giving an update of ‘Operation Amni Fakat’, Force Commander, MNJTF, Major General Lucky Irabor observed that Boko Haram terrorism like other similar conflicts create complex emergencies which attract humanitarian, military and other interventions.
He said that for such interventions to succeed, it is imperative for responsible actors to share and disseminate information.
This he noted was the rationale for MNJTF’s effort in providing information about its activities on a regular basis.
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Continuing, the Force Commander noted that the mandate of the MNJTF among other responsibilities empowers it to “create a safe and secure environment in the areas affected by the activities of Boko Haram terrorism and other terrorist groups, in order to significantly reduce violence and other abuses, including sexual and gender based violence, in full compliance with international law”.
He added that the ongoing operation is in the spirit of the mandate.
Major General Irabor disclosed that ‘Operation Anmi Fakat’ is to consolidate on the gains of ‘Operation Ruwan Kada’ which was conducted between January and June 2017.
The Force Commander informed the gathering that the current operation which was flagged off on 5 April 2018 is already yielding substantial operational dividends.
He explained that the high casualty ratio of his troops was due to indirect fire and Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device attack by terrorists, but assured that steps have been taken to forestall a re-occurrence.
The Force Commander hinted that already 50% of injured troops have been treated and discharged.
He assured the audience and people in the Lake Chad Basin Commission countries of the determination of the MNJTF in conjunction with national forces to deal decisively with Boko Haram terrorism, as Operation Anmi Fakat continues.
The Force Commander thanked strategic and international partners, troops contributing countries and other stake – holders for the support and encouragement so far given to the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Colonel Timothy Antigha
Chief Military Public Information
MNJTF N’Djamena.
