In a coordinated effort between Nigerian Army operatives, a hybrid force, and the Civilian Joint Task Force, a successful offensive operation was conducted in the Timbuktu triangle within the Lake Chad Region, resulting in the elimination of three terrorists and the recovery of significant weaponry.
According to a statement issued on Friday by Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, troops engaged in a fierce battle with terrorists upon encountering them. Despite facing resistance, the insurgents were ultimately overpowered by the superior firepower of the Nigerian Army forces and their collaborators.
During the operation, the insurgents unleashed various weapons including vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices, mortars, gun trucks, and motorbikes against the troops. However, due to the overwhelming response from the Nigerian Army forces, the terrorists were forced to retreat, leaving behind their stronghold and a cache of armaments and equipment.
The recovered items included a mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP), a gun truck mounted with an anti-aircraft gun, a Dushka Machine Gun, an AK-47 Rifle, and a locally fabricated gun. Additionally, troops seized a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) Bomb, 273 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a pumping machine, 65 Dushka links, 48 General Purpose Machine Gun links, and three motorbikes.
This operation dealt a significant blow to the insurgents and demonstrated the resolve and capability of the Nigerian Army in combating terrorism in the region.
In a separate operation conducted in Nasarawa, Nigerian Army forces eliminated one criminal and confiscated dangerous weapons, further bolstering security efforts in the area.