Army neutralises terrorists, rescues nine children, women in Borno

The Nigerian Army troops have ambushed and killed terrorists in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The operation, which targeted terrorist areas around Pulka and Ashagashiya, led to the rescue of seven women and nine children who had been held captive.

Nigerian Army in a statement on X said the troops deployed in the North East, in collaboration with Vigilante and Hybrid Forces, have achieved notable successes against terrorist activities in the region.

These efforts have led to the neutralization of terrorists, the rescue of hostages, and the recovery of arms and other items.

“In Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, troops executed an ambush targeting terrorists’ staging areas around Pulka and Ashagashiya,” the Army said.

“The operation resulted in contact with the terrorists, leading to the neutralization of one, while others fled, abandoning their belongings. Seven women and nine children were rescued from captivity.”

It stated that troops recovered one submachine gun (SMG), three bicycles, four blankets, cooking utensils, and various other items.

In a related development, in the Komala general area of Borno State, the troops neutralized one terrorist and recovered two AK-47 rifles with two magazines containing 29 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 91 belted links of PKT ammunition.

Other recovered items included one SMG, two AK-47 rifles, one SMG magazine, nine rounds of 9 mm ammunition, and a motorcycle.

In Benue State, troops responded to intelligence reports about terrorist movements in Ayati Village, Ukum LGA, and launched a swift operation to counteract these activities.

The terrorists fled upon sighting the troops, abandoning an AK-47 rifle, a Dane gun, two 83 mm launchers, four locally made launchers, and one rifle magazine.

The troops also seized 19 rounds of 7.62 mm and five rounds of 5.56 x 45 mm ammunition, along with other assorted arms.

In Kogi State, troops acted on information about a planned ransom payment to kidnappers. Coordinating with vigilantes and local hunters and engaged the kidnappers at the planned exchange point in Okunran Okoloke General Area.

During the encounter, one kidnapper was neutralized, and an AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing 15 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and a motorcycle were recovered.

“These significant operational successes demonstrated the resilience and dedication of the troops in addressing security challenges across the country,” the Army said.