Yobe: Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation Hadin Kai have apprehended a suspected Nigerien terrorist attempting to infiltrate a security perimeter in Yobe. The operation, conducted by the 120 Task Force Battalion in Katarko, Gujba Local Government Area, also resulted in the neutralization of scores of terrorists, apprehension of several others, and the rescue of victims across various theatres of operation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the suspect’s inability to speak any Nigerian language raised suspicions about possible transnational ties, prompting further investigations. In a related development in Borno, two relatives of terrorists, an adult female and a child, voluntarily surrendered to the troops of 202 Battalion in Bama after escaping from the Churchur axis. This development is seen as a sign of sustained pressure on insurgent enclaves.
In Sokoto State, troops of the 8 Division Garrison engaged in a fierce gun battle in Tsamaye and Mai Lalle, Sabon Birni Local Government Area, resulting in the death of two armed elements. The troops recovered three AK-47 rifles and a motorcycle from the scene.
In Kebbi State, troops of the 1 Battalion Rear intercepted a cattle rustling attempt in Sauna Village, Argungu Local Government Area. The rustlers abandoned 251 cows and fled, allowing the troops to recover and return the animals to their rightful owners.
The source also reported that in Ondo State, troops of the 323 Artillery Regiment operating in Igbara-Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area, intercepted two suspected gunrunners attempting to purchase weapons. These suspects were allegedly working under the instruction of an inmate at Kirikiri Correctional Facility in Lagos, coordinating the illicit transaction to fuel criminal activities in Zamfara.
In Delta, troops discovered a tricycle loaded with about 200 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel along the Jeddo-Omadino axis in Warri South Local Government Area. In a separate clearance mission, seven suspects were arrested at a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area. Recovered items included a motorcycle, four mobile phones, and other logistics materials.
The source reaffirmed the army’s commitment to maintaining internal security and public order, assuring the public that the tempo of operations would remain high.