SAN FRANCISCO, October 07, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Army said on Monday that it killed over 30 suspected members of Boko Haram in weekend raids of the hideouts of the insurgents in Borno State.
The army explained that the raids were aimed at frustrating the plan of the insurgents to attack Bama again.
A statement issued on Monday by the Acting Army Public Relations Officer, 7 Division, Captain Aliyu Ibrahim Danja, said the insurgents were killed in both air and ground attacks on their bases and hideouts over the weekend.
The statement said: “In continuation of the fight against terrorism in Borno State, troops of 7 Division launched pre-emotive attacks on Boko Haram concentration at Izza Town of Borno State in the afternoon on October 6 2013.
“The operation which involved air strikes and ground attacks on Boko Haram terrorists was conducted following a report by military intelligence about plans by the terrorists to attack Bama town.
“During the attack, five Hilux vehicles mounted with anti-aircraft guns conveying terrorists and one 18-seater bus conveying the terrorists’ stores were destroyed. Unspecified number of Boko Haram terrorists were also killed.
“In a related development, troops of 7 Division pursued and engaged Boko Haram terrorists who fled Damboa town following encounter with security forces on October 5 to Ajigi and Kafa. 30 of the terrorists were killed, including a prominent leader (Amir) of the sect who was believed to be leading the attack on Damboa.
“The General Commanding Officer 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Obidah Ethan, wishes to inform the public that the division is currently conducting aggressive operations on terrorists’ location along Maiduguri-Damaturu road in order to ensure safety of citizens not only within towns and villages but also those plying roads within the division’s area of responsibility.”
