Jibrin Baba Ndace reports on the ongoing onslaught on insurgents in the North-east
In what could be considered as a major military operation aimed at demolishing and permanently uprooting insurgents from one of their bases, Balmo forest, the military cleared and took over the forest in an operation that has been on for over one week.
This operation which is seen as a major success and moral boosting to troops in the ongoing operations in the North East led to the discovery of arms and ammunitions. It also led to the capture of foreign mercenaries.
A statement made available to Blueprint indicated that, ‘troops cleared and took over Balmo forest’.
The statement by Director Defence Information, (DDI), Major General Chris Olukolade said: “Prior to the operation, Balmo forest stretching from Bauchi through Jigawa states with links to the fringes of Sambisa forest was used by terrorists as bases and hideouts for launching attacks.”
“Terrorists and armed gangs operating in the forests were completely rooted out while some were captured during the operation. Among those captured were two foreigners who are suspected to be mercenaries. Also captured are several weapons and equipment including power generating sets, communication equipment, vehicles, motorcycles, foodstuff and kitchen utensils.”
Within the same period, troops repelled attack on communities and killed ‘over 44 terrorists in Kerenoa.
“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.”
Also, troops on routine patrol around Banki and Miyanti in Borno State during the weekend 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.”
The operation which is ongoing has led to more discovery of deadly weapons which has been hitherto deployed by insurgents in committing heinous crimes in the North east . Reports indicated that these weapons were buried underground in Balmo forest.
A statement by Director Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade indicated that the troops have been excavating various sites for weapons.
“The mopping up operations in Balmo forest is yielding more discoveries of arms stockpiled in underground cells in the forest. Troops who have been excavating various sites in the forest in search of hidden weapons, have so far recovered over 10 rifles along with parts and accessories as well as more than 80 General Purpose Machine Guns, tubes of Rocket Propelled Grenades and Launchers, cables, wires and thousands of rounds of assorted ammunition. Also recovered in the search are uniforms of security agencies including protective clothing.”
“Meanwhile, suspects captured in the forest have been taken into custody and are volunteering information linking the activities in the forest with other terrorist activities in the country.”
“The mopping up operation continues.”
