Another pic and Defence HQ press release after cut...
Nigerian troops have been conducting coordinated air and land
operations in furtherance of efforts at containing the terrorists in the
North East part of the country. Somehow, it became apparent that the
terrorists in continuation of their campaign of terror were determined
to take over communities around Maiduguri which is their prime target.
There was therefore the need to ensure that communities such as Konduga
were protected. It is noteworthy that the terrorists made not less than
four attempts between 12 and 17 September 2014 to violate the security
and enter Konduga to perpetrate their atrocities. Air and land forces
were subsequently deployed to handle the situation.
The convoy of
combat vehicles typical of terrorists’ mission that involves their top
commanders, were fiercely engaged by the land and air forces. Several of
the terrorists including some of their commanders lost their lives in
the encounters which lasted an average of about 5 hours each.
The troops
captured some of the terrorists and their equipment. In the course of
those encounters, one Mohammed Bashir who has been acting or posing on
videos as the deceased Abubakar Shekau, the eccentric character known as
leader of the group died. Since the name Shekau has become a brand name
for the terrorists’ leader, the Nigerian military remains resolute to
serve justice to anyone who assumes that designation or title as well as
all terrorists that seek to violate the freedom and territory of
Nigeria.
On restoring normalcy after the encounter, inhabitants of the
community who were victims of terrorists activities corroborated
information on the identity of Bashir Mohammed alias Abubakar Shekau,
alias Abacha Abdullahi Geidam alias Damasack etc. Indeed, the recent
devastation on the leadership of the insurgents is attributable to the
renewed commitment to the mission of eradicating terrorism in our
country.
Meanwhile, a total of 135 terrorists have yesterday
evening surrendered along with equipment to troops around Biu Local
Government Area. A group of 88 submitted themselves at Mairiga/Bun –
Yadi while another group of 45 terrorists were taken in around Mubi –
Michika. They are all being interrogated and processed in conformity
with the dictates of standard best practices.
The Defence
Headquarters applauds the gallantry of the Nigerian troops who have
remained undaunted and professional in prosecuting this campaign against
terror. The keen interest exhibited by our neighbours and allies is
commendable and we appreciate them. All allies in the war against
terrorism are hereby assured of the Nigerian military’s resolve to
maintain momentum in the efforts to decimate and defeat terrorists. The
invaluable efforts toward achieving sustainable peace and victory
against the terrorists are highly appreciated.
Statement signed by Defence spokesperson, Maj. Gen Chris Olukayode
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