Why We intervene in Internal Security Operations- Army
The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to insinuations and complaints in the media on the alleged phased withdrawal of troops on Internal Security Operations in some parts of the country.
We wish to inform the public that it’s not true. The Nigerian Army will continue to live to the expectations of Nigerians in the discharge of its constitutional duties of defending the territorial integrity of our dear nation and in aid to civil authorities.
Consequently, troops on the ground will continue to intervene decisively to checkmate any form of criminality.
We however, appeal for the general publics continuous understanding, support and cooperation.
We also wish to specifically appeal to the state Governors and Local Government Councils Chairmen to also be responsive to the needs of the citizens through the provision of social and developmental infrastructures. This will help reduce incidences of crime and criminality in our society.
In another development, troops of 72 Battalion Special Forces on 7 April 2018 while on clearance operation in Gbajimba, Baka, Tomanyi, Iyode and Dogon Yashi in Benue State made contact with armed herdsmen militias at about 1330hours (1:30pm). The armed herdsmen militia on fighting one troops engaged them in a fire fight. In the exchange of fire, 1 militia herdsman was killed while 1 other with gunshots wounds and 3 others were arrested. 1 Ak 47 assault rifle was recovered after the encounter.
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Additionally, at about 1430hours (2:30pm), 2 other herdsmen engaged in destructive activities on farmlands were arrested at Chembe community. Earlier, Troops of the Battalion on patrol at Jatoaka town effected the arrest of 10 armed robbery suspects linked to an armed robbery incidence at about 0415hours (4:15am). All the suspects have been handed over to the police.
Similarly, in Taraba State, at about 0030hous to 0230hours (12:30am to 0230am), Troops of 101 Special Battalion conducted clearance operation along road Suntai-Muji-Kungana.
During the clearance operation, troops encountered armed bandits who blocked the road and were harassing and dispossessing road users of their valuables. The bandits fled into the bushes on engagement by own troops. A search of the general area led to the recovery of a dane gun. The barricade was cleared and traffic restored.
Similarly, aggressive patrols continue to frustrate armed bandits and deny them freedom of action on road Abuja-Kaduna.
In another incidence, troops of 707 Special Forces Battalion mobile strike team in OPERATION LAFIYA DOLE, prevented the infiltration of troops defensive position by two female suicide bombers. A combined team of 707 Special Forces mobile strike team and 222 Battalion pressured the suicide bombers into detonating their suicide vests killing themselves. Troops remain alert to prevent attacks on civilian population.
Also, a BOKO HARAM Terrorist suspect surrendered to troops in sambisa forest. He is currently under going interrogation at 26 Task Force Brigade. He will be moved to join the de-radicalization program in due course.
The public is therefore advised to report any suspicious movements in their area to the security agency for prompt action.
TEXAS CHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations
