Troops have cleared and taken over Balmo Forest
in a military operation that lasted throughout the
weekend, the Defence Headquarters has said.
Prior to the operation, Balmo Forest, which
stretches from Bauchi through Jigawa states with
links to the fringes of the Sambisa Forest, was
used by terrorists as bases and hideouts for
launching attacks.
A statement by the Director, Defence Information,
Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade, in Abuja on Monday,
said terrorists and armed gangs operating in the
forests were completely rooted out while some
were captured during the operation.
It however did not specify the number of those
arrested during the operation, but said that two
foreigners, suspected to be mercenaries, were
among those captured.
Also recovered were several weapons and
equipment including generating sets,
communication equipment, vehicles, motorcycles,
foodstuffs and kitchen utensils.
In another development, the military said over 44
terrorists died in Kerenoa and adjoining
communities, following an encounter with troops
who repelled their attack on the communities.
The military said that members of the sect armed
with Improvised Explosive Devices and other high
calibre weapons, had carried out a predawn attack
on the communities but were overpowered by the
troops.
During the operation, several of them were
captured as well as weapons and ammunition of
various calibre, according to the Defence
headquarters.
“Meanwhile, troops on routine patrol around Banki
and Miyanti in Borno State during the weekend
fought through an ambush laid by the terrorists
resulting in casualties on both sides.
“Altogether, a total of six soldiers were lost in the
various encounters with terrorists while those
wounded are receiving treatment,” the statement
added.

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