Boko Haram Commander Arrested As Nigerian Army Rescues 178 People

by our correspondent | Nigeria

Nigerian soldiers combing the forests of Sambisa have arrested a Boko Haram commander and freed 178 prisoners held by them, the Army announced on Sunday. Of the rescued, there 101 children, 67 women and 10 men.

Nigerian soldiers stand on each side of the Boko Haram
mounted in one of the villages from which they
 have been flushed. (Credit: Nigerian Army).

The cheering news was preceded by a report that the army repelled Boko Haram's attacks in Borno Village, killing many terrorists in the operation.

Later the army confirmed they successfully cleared Boko Haram camp in Fadan, Shuwarin, Wulari, Ngoro Dauye, Jidori, Alikashiri and 5 others places, taking down the above flag mounted by the terror group as a symbol of their occupation. Three flags were reportedly recovered, while five motor-cycles were burnt by the soldiers.

"Our gallant military have degraded BH fighting capability. Very soon BH will run short of suicide bombers /1", tweeted the army to a happy audience who quickly responded by expressing their happiness for the "gallant" soldiers fighting the evil group.

Later, the Defence Head Quarters said: "178 people in captives by #BH were rescued. 101 children, 67 women & 10 men respectively." 

The army said the Boko Haram commander "culprit", was arrested in an operation by troops of 7 division along Aulari in Bama axis of Borno State, and that he was being interrogated.

Accordin to a report by Nigerian Camera, the “offensive operation” that led to the capture of the terrorist was done in collaboration with troops of 21 Brigade and elements of 151 Task Force Battalion of 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, spokesperson of the division, Tukur Gusau, said in a statement.

“The troops morale remains high as they are determined to consolidate on the success achieved so far under Operation LAFIYA DOLE,” he said.

Other photos below:

* with Lead, story and photos by Nigerian Camera, Defence Department.