Troops Kill 4 Terrorists, Rescue Abducted Cleric in Borno, Enugu
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with local security volunteers and other security agencies, have killed four terrorists and criminals and rescued an abducted cleric in separate intelligence-led operations in Borno and Enugu states.
In Borno State, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), ambushed suspected terrorists between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities following credible intelligence on their movement.
Security sources said the troops laid in wait along an identified route and engaged the insurgents in a fierce gun battle.
“Three of the terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while others escaped with gunshot injuries,” a source disclosed.
Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the scene, as the operation was described as part of sustained efforts to deny terrorists freedom of movement and degrade their operational capabilities across the North-East.
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Meanwhile, in Enugu State, troops of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, rescued a kidnapped cleric, Rev. Johnson Anayo Onugwu, from unknown gunmen in Udenu Local Government Area.
The cleric was reportedly abducted from his residence in Ezimo community at about 1:00 a.m. on January 29. Acting on actionable intelligence, troops of the 82 Division Garrison were deployed to the Udenu axis and trailed the kidnappers to the Itabolo general area.
The troops engaged the criminals in a gun battle at Okpakeke community, leading to the successful rescue of the victim.
“One of the kidnappers was neutralised on the spot during the firefight, and no casualties were recorded on the side of the security forces,” a source said.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 20 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. The troops reportedly expended 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition during the operation.
The rescued cleric has since been reunited with his family, while security agencies said efforts were ongoing to track down other members of the criminal gang and bring them to justice.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations to combat terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime, as well as to protect communities and restore lasting peace across the country.
By PRNigeria
