Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) have killed at least 20 members of the Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgent group, including a commander identified as Abu Yusu, during an operation in Yobe State.
The commander, described as the Munzir of Dursula, was neutralised during a series of raids carried out in Goniri community in Gujba Local Government Area.
The operation, according to a statement by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, began on the night of March 9 and continued into the early hours of March 10.
Uba said the insurgents had attempted coordinated attacks on military positions under Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI, advancing from Goniri village and the Ngamdu junction axis in what appeared to be an attempt to encircle troops.
He said the soldiers responded swiftly with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvres, supported by reinforcements and air support, forcing the terrorists to retreat with heavy casualties.
According to him, several insurgents were killed during the encounter, including the senior commander, while troops also recovered weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and other equipment abandoned by the fleeing fighters.
He added that some soldiers sustained injuries during the clash but were promptly evacuated and are currently in stable condition.
Uba said follow-up operations conducted in the Timbuktu Triangle, particularly around Gwaigomari, led to the discovery of additional bodies of insurgents.
“The vigilant troops responded swiftly with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvres while reinforcements and air support were deployed,” he said.
He added that the affected area remains under military control while ground and air forces have continued aggressive follow-up operations in surrounding communities to track down fleeing terrorists.
The military high command also commended the troops for their gallantry and resilience, urging them to sustain the ongoing offensive against insurgents in the North-East.
