No fewer than 140 members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been neutralized by troops of the MultiNational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in Borno State.
Troops also arrested 57 other members of the deadly terrorist group in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, said this at a news conference in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Tuesday.
Ali said the feat was recorded as a sequel to series of air interdiction at Tumbun Fulani and other locations in continuation of a decisive offensive aimed at clearing remnants of the insurgents hibernating shores of Lake Chad.
He said: “Operation Lake Sanity 2 air interdictions have been highly effective. These aerial operations conducted by national Airforces from Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon have led to destruction of crucial terrorist logistic bases and staging areas.
“The troops recovered a cache of weapons, including 796 rounds of ammunition, one PKM machine gun, five AK-47 Rifles, two motorcycles, and eight magazines.
“Since April 23, the dedicated troops have been relentless in their efforts, recently clearing some locations such as Doron Naira, Zanari, Bagadaza and other key terrorist’s strongholds in the Lake Chad area.
“It is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices made during this phase; regrettably, we have recorded six casualties among the multinational troops since the operation began.
“Therefore, let me use this forum to further extend our deepest condolences and prayers for their eternal rest. Their bravery and sacrifice shall not be forgotten,” he said, adding that the success of Operation Lake Sanity II, is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our troops.
He said the successes recorded by the troops through sustained operations was a critical step towards restoring peace and stability in the region.
