Nigeria soldiers were said to have captured the stronghold of the fighting members of Boko Haram after a fierce battle over the weekend, resulting in the loss of at least six Nigeria soldiers.
According to the Director of the Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade in a statement, the cleared stronghold of Boko Haram is located in Balmo forest which stretches from Bauchi through Jigawa States with links to the fringes of Sambisa forest. This base has been used by the terrorists as hideouts from where they launch attacks on various communities.
General Olukolade said that well-armed terrorists operating in the forests have been completely rooted out while some have been captured during the operation.
Among those captured, according to him, were two foreigners who are suspected to be mercenaries.
Also captured, he added, are several weapons and equipment, including power generating sets, communication equipment, vehicles, motorcycles, foodstuff and kitchen utensils.
The information director said that over 44 members of Boko Haram were killed in another military operation in Kerenoa and adjoining communities.
He said that their attack on the communities was repelled, adding that they were armed with IEDs and other high caliber weapons.
“A large number of terrorists had carried out a predawn attack on the communities but met with stiff resistance of the troops. During the operation, several of them were captured as well as weapons and ammunitions of various calibre.”
General Olukolade said that troops on routine patrol around Banki and Miyanti in Borno State also fought through an ambush laid by terrorists resulting in casualties on both sides.
“Altogether, a total of 6 soldiers were lost in the various encounters with terrorists during the weekend while those wounded are receiving treatment.” [myad]
