Army reinforces in Geidam after Boko Haram looting

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt. General Tukur Buratai yesterday visited troops in Geidam, Yobe State, after Wednesday’s attack by Boko Haram militants who looted mostly food and petroleum products from the popular Wednesday market day.

Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, said the attack was successfully repelled by troops and reinforcement had been sent.

He said the army chief who was on an operational visit to the Northeast, went to the troop’s location and assessed the damage done to the town.

According to Usman, Buratai warned officers in the unit that such ugly incidents should not be allowed to happen again.

He further said: “The COAS drove into the town and further assessed the damage by the terrorists and gave further directive to the troops for the defence and improved security of the area.

“He also met with some community leaders and Idris Aloma Polytechnic staff where he assured them of their safety and improved security,” the statement added.

Buratai was received in Geidam by the GOC, 3 Division, Major General Hassan Umaru and the Acting Commander, 27 Task Force Brigade, who led the reinforcement team.

He assured the public that the isolated incident would not be allowed again.

“We reaffirm our determination and commitment to rout out the Boko Haram terrorists from all their enclaves before the end of this year”, he said.

The Chief of Army Staff continued his visit to other formations and units within the theatre of war against the Boko Haram.

Usman said Section 1 of the 27 Task Force Brigade was attacked but they were promptly repelled by troops. The militants looted food stuff and diesel from major stores and Petroleum stations in the town.

There were explosions and gunshots until mid night when the militants escaped with their loot. Residents of the town said a few civilians were killed during the attack.

A witness said he saw four dead bodies close to the market which the militants looted.

Meanwhile, Air Force jets and a military convoy intercepted fleeing militants who attacked the town. Troop reinforcement started arriving the town around 5:00am Thursday.

Residents said four Air Force jets arrived at 11:05am and hovered around the Kadar Lamba River where the insurgents got stuck.

Kadar Lamba River is about 28 kilometers from Geidam. Residents of Geidam went about their normal businesses yesterday amid jubilation over the prompt military response.