Troops of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna State defeated terrorists, reclaiming weapons and ammunition. They neutralized key figures, including notorious kingpins, in successful ambushes. Despite livestock casualties, troops remain committed to eliminating armed violence and emphasize the importance of public cooperation in the ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism.
By Peter Jene
KADUNA, Kaduna State — Troops of the Nigerian Army, operating in the area of responsibility of 1 Division, have decisively defeated terrorists by taking out kingpins and seizing a cache of weapons and ammunition in the large area that includes the local government areas of Birnin Gwari, Giwa, and Igabi in Kaduna State.
Strategic Operations Unfold:
Responding to recent terrorist attacks against civilians in Igabi and Giwa Local Governments, troops initiated a comprehensive offensive to flush out insurgents, providing relief to the beleaguered populace. Along the Maganda-Dausayi – Mugaba axis, troops encountered fierce resistance as insurgents, utilizing rustled herds of cattle as shields, engaged in direct fire with the military.
Fierce Firefight and Subsequent Recoveries:
Troops showed incredible bravery in the ensuing hour-long firefight, neutralizing two terrorists and reclaiming a sizable arsenal. One AK-47 weapon, one AK-47 magazine, three rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a Techno phone, three Hilux, motorbike keys, suspected marijuana wraps, tramadol tablets, and 13,200 Naira in cash were among the loot from the incident.
Regrettably, some rustled livestock used as shields were caught in the crossfire. Undeterred, troops remain on the trail of fleeing terrorist, unwavering in their commitment to rid the area of armed violence.
Ambush Success and Intelligence Triumph:
In a separate operation on February 22, 2024, troops successfully ambushed marauding insurgents along the Bada – Riyawa axis on the Kaduna – Birnin Gwari Road. The gallant troops neutralized six terrorists, recovered 2 AK 47 rifles, 5 AK 47 rifle magazines, 300 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, and obliterated 19 motorcycles used by the insurgents.
High-Profile Kingpins Eliminated:
Intelligence reports indicate the demise of notorious bandit terrorist kingpin Boderi, responsible for orchestrating high-profile kidnappings, including the Yauri school girls, Greenfield University, and Nigerian Defence Academy attacks. Another kingpin, Bodejo, met a similar fate in the ambush. Efforts are underway to authenticate this information through additional means.
Public Cooperation Crucial:
The Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, has highlighted the continuous significance of public cooperation in the ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism. The military’s steadfast commitment to reestablishing security and stability in the area is demonstrated by the recent victories.
