49 suspected Boko Haram terrorists were apprehended in various locations in Yobe State by troops, following a tip off by locals in some communities, the Defence headquarters disclosed on Wednesday.
Director of Public Relations, Brig-General Chris Olukolade, noted in a statement, that the arrests which were made during cordon and search operation, also witnessed the recovery of various weapons.
According to him, “weapons such as AK 47 rifles, locally made pistols and ammunition were recovered by the troops who combed such villages as Rugan Fulani, Arikime, Afghanistan and Ngandu villages”.
“Police stations are now being reopened in some parts of Borno State. At Kirenowa, detachments of the Police anti-terrorist unit have been deployed to complement security in the area.
“A key terrorist who specializes in recruiting young men into the Boko Haram fold has been apprehended by troops in Maiduguri following a tip off.
“The same individual who also watches over the insurgents’ armoury was arrested in one of the cordon and search operations by the special forces.
“Another group of five insurgents, all Nigeriens were arrested when troops stormed their hideout at Mallam Fatori as they attempted to escape in two Toyota Cruiser Jeeps.
“Troops continue to patrol the notorious Sambisa forest and are also cordoning the Alou forest and Gwoza hills. More abandoned vehicles, weapons and other items are being recovered in the camps of the insurgents.
“Among the recent discovery are rifles, double barrel guns, various charms and amulets, machine guns, as well as pairs of camouflage uniforms, bows and quiver and assorted rifle magazine”.
“Others are handset, walkie talkie, car number plates and some food items. Abandoned vehicles recovered include, a Golf Car, a Honda, Customs Pickup Van, Honda (2003 Model) and a Volkswagen Monte Carlo,” Olukolade said.
