The Nigerian Army says troops of 7 Division have eliminated five terrorists and rescued 78 persons, comprising 35 women and 43 children, in six villages in Borno State.
The clearance operations by the Combat Team took place on Friday, March 22, according to a statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu on Saturday.
The six villages successfully cleared by the troops include Ngurusoye, Sabon Gari, Mairamri 1 and 2, Bula Dalo, Bula Dalo extension, Yamanci, and Gargaji all in Borno State.
“During the operation, the CT came in contact with the terrorists and fiercely engaged them in a gun battle, eliminating 5 of the terrorists.
“The valiant troops also rescued 78 persons, comprising 35 women and 43 children held hostage by the terrorists.
The enclaves and villages cleared by the CT include Ngurusoye, Sabon Gari, Mairamri 1 and 2, Bula Dalo, and Bula Dalo extension. Other areas also cleared are Yamanci and Gargaji general areas.
“Items recovered are one terrorists’ flag, a mobile phone belonging to the terrorists. The rescued victims are in custody for preliminary investigation and profiling.
“The troops have continued to maintain momentum in the ongoing Operations Desert Sanity III to rid the North East of terrorists and insurgents,” the statement read in part.