Troops neutralise insurgents, recover arms in Kainji Lake National Park
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 22 Armoured Brigade, operating under Operation Park Strike V, in collaboration with Park Rangers, have neutralised insurgents and recovered arms and motorcycles during an ambush operation in Kainji Lake National Park, Niger State.
A statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations of the brigade, Capt. Stephen Nwankwo, said the operation was carried out on Thursday following credible intelligence on insurgents’ movement in the Zugurma Section of the park.
Nwankwo said the troops laid an ambush at Tungan Talle crossing point at about 1:15 a.m., where they engaged the insurgents in a firefight.
He said the troops’ superior firepower overpowered the criminals, leading to an unconfirmed number of insurgents neutralised, while others sustained gunshot injuries.
According to him, three AK-47 rifles and four motorcycles were recovered during the operation.
He, however, said one Park Ranger sustained gunshot injuries but had been stabilised after receiving prompt medical attention.
Nwankwo quoted the Commander of 22 Armoured Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Ezra Barkins, as commending the troops for their gallantry and professionalism.
He said Barkins, who relocated to the Step-Up Headquarters at Wawa Cantonment for effective coordination, urged the troops to sustain the momentum until criminal elements were flushed out of the area.
Further findings by Zagazola indicate that Kainji Lake National Park, which spans parts of Niger and Kwara States, has in recent months become a hideout for armed groups targeting surrounding communities and travellers.
Residents around Zugurma and Borgu sections of the park told Zagazola that the ongoing clearance operations have significantly reduced incidents of ambush and cattle rustling in the area.
They, however, appealed for sustained military presence to consolidate the gains and prevent the insurgents from regrouping in the forested zones of the park.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to defending the territorial integrity of the nation, and assured that it would continue to work with other security agencies and stakeholders to restore lasting peace and security in its areas of operation.
