Soldiers of the Nigerian Army, on Friday, killed three militants during an attack on Sambisa forest in Borno State.
They also demolished militant shelters in the forest.
Sambisa forest was originally designated as a game reserve by the colonial government, but it has now become the stronghold of both Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province militants.
Despite multiple military operations in the forest, the militants continue to operate from there.
A statement on Saturday by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu indicated that after destroying the militants’ camp in the forest, two AK-47s and a suicide vest were found.
The statement explained, “Nigerian Army troops deployed to the North East as part of the ongoing counter-insurgency operations on Friday, March 8, 2024, carried out a successful attack on a militants’ camp in the Arra area of Sambisa Forest.
“During the attack, the troops bravely neutralized three militants, including a suicide bomber, and destroyed their base in the area. After a thorough search, troops recovered two AK-47 Rifles and a suicide vest.”
Onyema also stated that in another operation in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno, one militant was killed and their base was destroyed.
He stated, “In another operation, troops carried out a clearance operation in the Buluwa Area of Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State where they uncovered and destroyed another militants’ camp.
“In the encounter, troops killed one militant and recovered one AK-47 Rifle, 14 rounds of 7.62mm (Special), a bicycle, foodstuff, a grinding machine, and other various items.”
Onyema emphasized that the Nigerian Army was dedicated to eliminating terrorism and insurgency in the region, and would continue to conduct operations to ensure the safety and security of the public.
The Defence Headquarters has said troops deployed nationwide are prepared to address any threats, especially as the Muslim faithful starts the Ramadan period.
The DHQ’s assurance coincides with a statement from the Department of State Services which congratulates Christians for Lent and Muslims for the upcoming Ramadan, and urged citizens to remain watchful, especially against the threat of Improvised Explosives.
