Troops kill 5 Boko Haram, arrest 2 suspects

Troops of the Operation Lafiya Dole engaged the Boko Haram sect fighters, killing five and arresting two others. The troops also recovered assorted weapons and other items.

Daily Trust on Sunday gathered that a hunter who was assisting the troops was killed during exchange of gunfire.

Army spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Texas Chukwu, said in two separate statements he issued yesterday that troops of the Operation Lafiya Dole on Friday neutralised suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Bakin-Dutse area of Adamawa State, following a distress call from hunters.

“The terrorists on sighting the troops opened fire which resulted in an exchange. Five Boko Haram terrorists were neutralized while some escaped into nearby caves. Also, one hunter lost his life during the operation,” he said, adding that troops were on the trail of the fleeing terrorists.

Chukwu further stated that five AK-47 rifles and five magazines loaded with 22-rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition were recovered.

“The public is therefore advised to report any suspicious movements in their area to security agencies for prompt action. Also on Thursday, troops arrested one Saidu Hamidu Jenga, 33, along Maiduguri bypass, Bauchi, in connection with Boko Haram activities.

“The suspect was allegedly overheard discussing about movement of arms and ammunition on phone. Items recovered include one techno phone with two sim cards as well as N6,870 cash.

“Similarly, troops of the Operation Lafiya Dole arrested a suspected Boko Haram terrorist, Umar Ali, 59, from Miringa village in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. He was arrested at Galdimare ward in Biu town. Preliminary investigation revealed that he had been participating in Boko Haram activities in the area.

“The public is hereby advised to always give useful information to the security agencies to aid them in carrying out assigned tasks,” Brig.Gen. Chukwu said.