Troops dismantle three Boko Haram detention facilities in Timbuktu Triangle
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have dismantled three detention facilities used by Boko Haram terrorists in the Timbuktu Triangle as they sustained their advance into the notorious enclave in Borno State.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the detention facilities, each with three separate cells, were uncovered at the Guraba terrorist camp during ongoing clearance operations in the area.
The source said the troops recorded significant gains after clearing and dominating key terrorist locations across the Timbuktu Triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas.
“During the operations, troops made contact with fleeing terrorist elements and engaged them with high volumes of fire, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists,” the source said.
He added that on Jan. 20, while consolidating at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs).
“Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised. The second, however, breached the defensive position and affected some logistics platforms,” he said.
The source said that in the course of the attack, some soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) lost their lives, while others sustained injuries.
“The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital. Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component, in synergy with other Army air assets, provided continuous overwatch to ensure safe evacuation and further neutralisation of terrorists,” he said.
In another development, troops discovered mass graves in the Timbuktu Triangle containing about 20 bodies of terrorists killed during previous encounters and buried by their cohorts.
The discovery, the source said, exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits the propaganda of the insurgents.
He said the general security situation across the theatre remained stable, adding that troops’ morale and fighting efficiency were high.
“Operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements as troops remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and security in the North East,” the source added.
