NIGERIAN troops have cleared and taken over Balmo forest in Borno State,
capturing terrorists and armed gangs in a military operation at the weekend.
This was disclosed by the Director, Defence Information, Major-General
Chris Olukolade, in a statement on Monday.
Prior to this clear-out, Balmo forest, which stretches from Bauchi
through Jigawa states, with links to the fringes of Sambisa forest, had served
as a base and hideout for launching attacks by terrorists.
Among those captured were two foreigners, who were suspected to be
mercenaries, including several weapons, power generating sets, communication
equipment, vehicles, motorcycles, foodstuff and kitchen utensils.
Similarly, troops killed over 44 terrorists in Keronoa and adjoining
communities.
During the operation, the troops successfully repelled the pre-dawn
attack by the terrorists on the communities.
The military captured improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ammunition
and high calibre weapons brandished by the terrorists.
In a related development, troops on routine patrol around Banki and
Miyanti in Borno State, also at the weekend, fought through an ambush laid by
terrorists, resulting in the death of six soldiers and some terrorists.
Tags
Society