Troops kill Boko Haram commander, Abu Rijab, recover arms in Borno

The Nigerian Army has neutralised Abu Rijab, a notorious Boko Haram commander, during a series of coordinated operations across Borno State.

The offensive, which took place on August 17, 2024, targeted a terrorist stronghold in Bula Daloye, Bama Local Government Area.

Following a fierce firefight, the troops overpowered the insurgents, killing three, including Abu Rijab, a high-profile target on the military’s wanted list.

The operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and several mobile phones.

In a related development, eight terrorists, along with their families, surrendered to the Nigerian Army in Gwoza Local Government Area, signaling the effectiveness of the sustained military pressure on the insurgents.

In addition to neutralizing key terrorist figures, the Nigerian Army has also made significant progress in disrupting criminal activities linked to the insurgency.

Troops apprehended two suspects in Konduga Local Government Area with 52 bags of illicit drugs, believed to be intended for supply to Boko Haram fighters.

Read also: Over 263 Boko Haram terrorists, families surrender to troopsaa

Further south, in Taraba State, the army’s efforts yielded the arrest of Adamu Tanko, the chairman of the Gassol Local Government Area Hunters’ Association.

He was accused of selling an AK-47 rifle to a suspected terrorist.

The weapon was traced back to a joint operation in Boki Lamba, a border town with Plateau State.

Meanwhile, in Plateau State, troops responded to reports of suspicious activity in the Rikkos area of Jos North Local Government Area.

Two criminal suspects were arrested, and a fabricated rifle, along with mobile phones containing images of various weapons, was seized.

Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff has commended the troops for their relentless efforts and dedication in the ongoing fight against terrorism.

He noted that these operations marked another step forward in the Nigerian Army’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.

He also thanked the public for their continued support, urging them to maintain their cooperation with the military and other security agencies by providing credible information on criminal activities.