Nigerian Army troops have successfully killed four Boko Haram terrorists and rescued three kidnapped civilians in a counter-insurgency operation in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. The incident, which unfolded on April 12, followed a foiled terrorist attack along the Damboa–Chibok axis, where security forces intercepted insurgents attempting to carry out an assault. The operation, carried out by the 115 Task Force Battalion, began after intelligence reports flagged suspicious movements in the area at around 2:30 a.m. Troops positioned in an ambush at Mussa engaged the terrorists with precise and effective firepower, resulting in the deaths of four insurgents and forcing the remainder to retreat.
The engagement also led to the recovery of weapons and other materials abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, underscoring the effectiveness of the military’s surveillance and rapid response capabilities. According to security sources cited by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama in a post on his X handle, the operation continued into the early morning hours. At approximately 6:15 a.m., troops conducted follow-up sweeps near Old Hyum, where they discovered and rescued three abducted civilians. The victims, identified as Fulani herdsmen from the Lagunasa community in Askira Uba, were found in a suspected terrorist hideout and are now receiving medical and psychological care.
The successful rescue highlights the ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to dismantle Boko Haram’s operational networks in the northeast. The area remains a hotspot for insurgent activity, and the military’s proactive measures are aimed at restoring safety and normalcy to affected communities. The troops are currently carrying out clearance operations in the vicinity to ensure no other insurgents remain hidden. This operation adds to a series of recent successes by the Nigerian Army in Borno State, where coordinated efforts have disrupted terrorist logistics and reduced the frequency of attacks.
The rescue of the three civilians is a significant development, as it demonstrates the military’s ability to not only neutralize threats but also protect vulnerable populations. The incident also underscores the importance of intelligence-driven operations in countering insurgency. With continued vigilance and community cooperation, security forces aim to further weaken Boko Haram’s presence in the region. As the military intensifies its operations, residents in the northeast are encouraged to report suspicious activities to support national security efforts.
Leave a Comment