One-eyed Boko Haram Commander, 30 Others Killed in Damaturu


One-eyed top commander of Boko Haram in Damaturu, Yobe State, Bakaka and about 30 other elite fighters of the sect were yesterday killed in a fierce gun battle with men of the Joint Task Force (JTF).

Speaking to reporters, a top security source in Yobe State described the development as one of the most important achievements since the killing of Habibu Bama few months ago. He said the confrontation occurred in the Kandahar area of Damaturu, and that at least 10 sect members were also captured alive and some arms recovered.

Confirming the story, JTF spokesperson in Damaturu, Lt. Eli Lazarus said in a statement that about thirty suspected Boko Haram terrorists were killed.

“In the early hours of Sunday, 7th October 2012, men of JTF in Damaturu, Yobe State on a cordon and search operation in suspected Boko Haram hideout at Kandahar and the cemetery areas of Damaturu engaged in a gun battle with the suspected terrorists. About thirty (30) suspected Boko Haram terrorists were killed in the battle which lasted several hours. In the battle, the notorious, one-eyed Bakaka, the field commander of Boko Haram in Damaturu and a close associate of Abubakar Shekau was killed. Ten (10) others, arrested during the battle, are presently assisting investigators to track other senior members of the terrorist group.”

He also spoke on the weapons recovered. “Six rifles, ninety rounds of ammunition, several handsets and sim packs were recovered. Other items recovered include; knives, bows and arrows, diggers, and two keke napep tricycles. Also, three cans of IEDs recovered were detonated.

“JTF wishes to appreciate the support so far received from the peace-loving and law abiding people of Yobe State urging them to volunteer more information that will lead to arrest of other suspected terrorists. JTF further requests that people should remain calm and go about their lawful activities as efforts are geared towards ensuring the safety of lives and property.”

4 COMMENTS