By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully thwarted an attempted infiltration by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists along the Kirawa–Pulka axis in Borno State, neutralising two insurgents in a fierce exchange of fire.
Security sources disclosed that the encounter occurred on April 18 when troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion, deployed along the Kirawa–Sabon Gari–Mararaba–Pulka corridor, intercepted terrorists attempting to infiltrate the Ngoshe axis. The attackers, who were riding on motorcycles from the Miyanti general area, ran into a well-positioned military patrol.
The troops engaged the insurgents with overwhelming firepower, killing two on the spot, while others fled in disarray with possible gunshot injuries. One radio set and two motorcycles were recovered from the scene.
Military authorities confirmed that no casualties or equipment losses were recorded on the side of the troops. Follow-up clearance operations along the withdrawal routes yielded no further contact.
In a separate development, troops of the 195 Battalion foiled a kidnapping attempt in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, rescuing victims, arresting suspects, and recovering weapons in a swift response operation.
The troops, stationed at Auchi, acted on a distress call at about 8:00 a.m. on April 16 following a reported abduction in Iyuku, Jattu.
On arrival, they found that three victims had already escaped from captivity. One of the victims reportedly overpowered a suspect and seized an AK-47 rifle loaded with nine rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
The victims were safely reunited with their families after the rescue.
Troops subsequently launched a mop-up operation that led to the arrest of five suspected kidnappers. Three mobile phones were also recovered during the operation.
The suspects and exhibits have been handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation and prosecution.
Military authorities said the operations reflect sustained efforts to dominate key routes, dismantle terrorist and kidnapping networks, and restore public confidence, while assuring that offensive operations against criminal elements will continue across all theatres.
