275 Suspected Boko Haram Detainees Released by Military

Four killed in fresh attack

The military yesterday released 275 persons arrested and detained in connection with Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State. Two Nigeriens and two Cameroonians were among those released.

The Head (Theatre Commander) of the counterinsurgency operation in the North-East (Operation Lafiya Dole) Maj. Gen. Hassan Umaru disclosed during the handover of the suspects to the Borno State Government that they were picked from different locations in the state for alleged involvement in terrorism and insurgency.

He said the military decided to let them go after they were "properly profiled, screened and cleared," to reunite with their families.

Umaru said: "In line with the principle of justice, equity and fairness, we release then to their families," insisting that their detention was a sacrifice they paid to bring peace back to the troubled region.

The Army commander, who addressed a brief ceremony at Maimalari Cantonment Maiduguri, added: "I am confident that the detainees will be ambassadors to the Nigerian military."

He revealed that 142 of the total 275 detainees were males, 49 females, 22 under-aged (male) and 50 female children.

He said eight cases that were criminal in nature will be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Governor Kashim Shettima while receiving the detainees on behalf of their families commended the military "for being fair." He promised that government would assist the released detainees to start a new life. "Children among you will be returned to school," he promised.

General Officer Commander, 7 Division Nigerian Army, Brig Gen Victor Ezugwu in his remark said the military would continue to respect fundamental rights of the people in the area of its operation.

He urged those still living in areas under Boko Haram control to move closer to military locations where their lives will be better protected.

Meanwhile, four persons were killed by Boko Haram on Thursday night during an attack on Shuwari Village in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Chairman of Borno State Emergency Management Agency, Engr. Ahmed Satomi confirmed the attack to our correspondent on telephone.

Satomi said the attackers killed four people, looted and carted away food items as well as burnt down the village.

He said that some lucky villagers were able to flee to nearby Dalori IDPs camp and Maiduguri for safety

Shuwari is about 13 miles away from Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

In the last two week after a lull in attacks, the Boko Haram insurgents have continued to intensify attacks on troubled Borno State.