Troops destroy terrorist hideout, kill 21 insurgents in Adamawa

At least 21 suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters have been killed after Nigerian troops raided a terrorist hideout in Adamawa State.

The operation took place on Wednesday around the Kopre Mountain axis of Hong Local Government Area, where troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working with the Tactical Team of the Office of the National Security Adviser, engaged the insurgents.

The military said the assault was launched after intelligence indicated that terrorists were operating from the mountainous area.

During the operation, troops reportedly encountered the insurgents twice, resulting in the deaths of more than 21 fighters. Several others were said to have fled the area with gunshot injuries.

The operation also dealt a blow to the group’s logistics network, as troops destroyed facilities and equipment allegedly used to support terrorist activities.

Weapons and ammunition recovered from the location included AK-47 rifles, magazines and a substantial quantity of 7.62mm ammunition. Soldiers also destroyed motorcycles, bicycles and containers filled with Premium Motor Spirit.

The military, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the raid was part of its continued campaign to weaken terrorist groups, disrupt their supply lines and rescue people abducted by insurgents.

It added that troops would maintain search and rescue operations in the area until all victims held by the terrorists were found and brought to safety.

The military authorities praised the participating troops and the ONSA Tactical Team for their coordination and professionalism, describing the operation as another demonstration of the military’s capacity to take the fight to terrorist groups even in difficult and mountainous terrain.

The authorities said efforts would continue to deny the insurgents the freedom to establish strongholds and operate across the North-East.