Emmanuel Thomas
December 07, 2015 – At least three soldiers have been confirmed killed as the military embarked on operation clear Sambisa forest from terrorists actitivies.
During the operation, several people hitherto kidnapped and held by Boko Haram were released, while a number of the terrorists were killed.
In a statement, Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman said 2,000 cows rustled by the terrorists were also rescued.
“Various units of the army have advanced deep into the forest clearing most of the camps therein, rescuing persons held captive, arresting some terrorists and destroying most of their weapons and equipment.
“Advancing troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force were able to clear and destroy Boko Haram terrorists camps at Shuari, Adembe, Yerimari Kura, Yerimari Gana, Gonin Kurmi, Kore, Mainya Kore, and Lopere. Additionally, the Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Regiment has destroyed the terrorists camps at Dure, Dure Kore, Jokwa, as well as several other camps.
“The troops recovered foodstuffs, motorcycles, flags, Improvised Explosive Making Devices (IED) materials and military uniforms. Among other discoveries were the terrorists tunnels, weapons and equipment.
“The soldiers also recovered 2,000 cows rustled from various persons over time and rescued women and children held captives by the Boko Haram. While the animals have been moved to Kanwuri, the rescued persons have been evacuated and are being given all the necessary support and assistance”, he said..
He addedd that during the encounter with terrorists at Yerimari Gana a number of Boko Haram terrorists were killed and some suspected terrorists were arrested who are being interrogated. He said a soldier also sustained gun shot wound and fracture on the leg.
“Similarly, while advancing to destroy Nefari terrorists camp, troops discovered and cleared 3 IEDs laid along the route. The camp was successfully cleared and troops have continued their advance while a blocking force has been deployed to prevent infiltration and possible escape by the terrorists.
“Unfortunately during another encounter with the terrorists along the axis of advance, 3 soldiers made the supreme sacrifice, while an officer and 2 soldiers were wounded in action”, he said.
He said that the morale of troops is very high adding that they are conscious of their set objective and are unrelenting in their determination to defeat the Boko Haram terrorists.
“In a related development, troops have also destroyed Boko Haram terrorists camps Bulagaije and Disa, Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State and recovered motorcycles, Dane guns and ammunitions”, he said.
