By Saminu Ibrahim
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have foiled separate attacks by terrorists on Forward Operating Bases in Gajiram and Mairari, Borno State.
The military also disclosed that two members of the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), including a commander known as a Qaid, surrendered to troops in Bama Local Government Area.
According to a statement by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Captain Mohammed Goni, the terrorists advanced towards the Gajiram base in Nganzai Local Government Area on September 17 but were detected early by troops supported by intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets of the Multinational Joint Task Force.
He said the troops immediately adopted defensive measures, while the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided close air support.
“Faced with the coordinated response, the terrorists withdrew from the vicinity of the location into adjoining areas,” the statement said.
Goni added that later that night, ISWAP terrorists attacked the Forward Operating Base at Mairari in Guzamala Local Government Area but met stiff resistance from troops backed by close air support.
The attack was contained, with the military inflicting casualties on the terrorists and maintaining the integrity of the base.
He said subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of four terrorists’ bodies, AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, RPG bombs and a camcorder, among other items.
According to the military, some troops sustained injuries during the engagement and were stabilised before being airlifted to hospital for further treatment.
Following the attacks, the Commander, Sector 3 OPHK, conducted a post-engagement assessment of the affected locations, while the bases were reinforced to strengthen their defensive posture.
The military said troops were also continuing operations in the surrounding areas to prevent the terrorists from regrouping.
Meanwhile, two JAS terrorists, including a Qaid, surrendered to troops of Sector 1 OPHK along the Miyanti–Darel Jamel Main Supply Route in Bama LGA on the night of September 16.
The terrorists reportedly surrendered with three AK-47 rifles, five magazines, a motorcycle and a cache of ammunition.
They are currently in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation and profiling.
The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, commended the troops, MNJTF ISR personnel and aircrew for their vigilance, courage and coordination.
Ajose reaffirmed the military’s determination to sustain pressure against terrorist groups and protect communities across the North East.
He also urged terrorists still hiding in the bush to lay down their arms and surrender through established channels, while calling on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces.
