Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter terrorism operations across the country on Monday 29 July, 2024 conducted series of operations that resulted in the rescue of abducted persons, neutralisation of a notorious terrorist, interception of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO) and seizure of arms.
It added that a notorious Boko Haram fighter also surrendered to the troops.
The army in a statement issued Wednesday said in Kogi State, troops responded swiftly to a distress call along the Obajana Oshokoshoko road, where some civilians were abducted and taken into the forest.
It noted that the troops moved in swiftly to locate the victims, where they had a fierce gun battle with the kidnappers and successfully extricated the hostages.
Also, in Benue State, troops acting on actionable intelligence engaged terrorists in a fierce battle along the Gbeji Afia road in Benue State.
It added that the troops neutralised one of the terrorists, captured one AK-47 rifle, ammunition and a motorbike, thereby preventing a potential attack, and ensuring the safety of the local community.
In another operation, it stressed that the troops in Imo State acting on credible intelligence intercepted a vehicle transporting 21 sacks of illegally refined diesel (AGO).
It stressed that the troops also apprehended armed individuals who were hired to escort the illegal product.
It noted: “In another development in Borno State, a notorious Boko Haram fighter named Babakarami Balawan has surrendered to troops in Bama Local Government Area, following aggressive onslaught on terrorists’ hideouts in the area. Items recovered from the terrorist are one AK 49 rifle, a magazine, and a bicycle.
“The same troops during an encounter neutralised 2 terrorists and recovered 11 rounds of 7.62 mm NATO ammunition, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 3 rounds of 5.56 mm x 45mm NATO ammunition and 3 empty magazines.
“Relatedly, the gallant troops also rescued a woman and her 2 children in a search operation in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno state. “