The Nigerian Army has scored a major victory in its fight against terrorism, eliminating a notorious insurgent commander, Abba Alai (also known as Amirul Khahid of Alafa), along with several other terrorists in Bama and Gwoza, Borno State. The intense gunfight, which lasted over four hours, resulted in the recovery of a large cache of deadly weapons.
During the operation, troops seized 11 rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), 760 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 220 rounds of 12.7mm linked ammunition, an AK-47 rifle, and 440 rounds of 7.62mm by 54mm ammunition, among other high-caliber weapons.
Major Breakthrough in Katsina and Delta States
In Katsina State’s Jibia Local Government Area, troops rescued 10 captives, including seven women and three children. A terrorist commander in the region voluntarily surrendered, handing over two AK-47 rifles, signaling a possible shift in the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, in Delta State, a high-ranking commander of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Ekene Ifeanyi, was captured in his hideout within Issele Asagba Forest, Oshimili South Local Government Area.
Army’s Unyielding Resolve
A statement from the Nigerian Army described the recent offensives as “a relentless and ferocious crackdown” on terrorist strongholds. The operation in Borno State particularly targeted insurgents regrouping to launch fresh attacks around Fallujah and its surrounding villages.
The battle ended in a crushing defeat for the terrorists, forcing them to flee in panic, leaving behind weapons, ammunition, and even supplies buried underground. A meticulous search of Gobara village in Gwoza LGA also uncovered more arms, including 57 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three AK-47 rifle magazines, and improvised weapons.
Hostage Rescues and Kidnapper Crackdowns
In a particularly heartwarming development, the troops rescued an elderly woman who had been held hostage by insurgents for a staggering 10 years. Meanwhile, in Chibok LGA, Borno State, security forces raided a notorious kidnapper’s den, arresting a prime suspect and recovering multiple firearms, including AK-47 rifles and pump-action shotguns.
Elsewhere, in Zamfara and Niger states, Nigerian troops engaged terrorists in gun battles, recovering motorcycles and dismantling hideouts. In Kwara State, a daring operation in Karunji village led to the rescue of several kidnap victims, with criminals abandoning weapons as they fled.
COAS Reaffirms Commitment to Eradicate Terrorism
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, hailed the troops for their relentless efforts and assured them of continued support. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to wiping out terrorism and criminal activities nationwide, emphasizing that peace and stability remain the ultimate goal.
With continuous offensives and increasing pressure on terrorist groups, the Nigerian Army is sending a strong message: There is no hiding place for criminals.
