By Abdul Kareem

In a concerted effort to combat terrorism in Nigeria’s Northeast, military forces have dismantled over 25 Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) strongholds, with the latest operations revealing substantial underground food storage left behind by the fleeing insurgents.

This was officially confirmed in an earlier report by Zagazola Makama, an authoritative voice on the Lake Chad conflict. 

The week-long offensive, part of Operation Hadin Kai, has seen troops engage and neutralize a significant number of fighters, with at least 11 ISWAP combatants confirmed killed in a clash near Ukuba within the notorious Sambisa Forest. The ongoing operation, dubbed Operation Desert Sanity III, also led to the troops’ recovery of a diverse array of weapons, including an anti-aircraft gun, rocket-propelled grenades, and multiple firearms.

As the troops advanced into previously insurgent-held territories, they encountered and disrupted enemy enclaves, pushing the militants out of strategic locations such as New Goske, Garin Abbas, and Korege. In one notable incident during these advances, a patrol team narrowly escaped casualties when their vehicle triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) near Alagarno, underscoring the persistent threat faced by the military forces in the region.

The discovery of the underground food storage in Yobe State highlights the extensive supply networks that have sustained terrorist operations in the region. The trove, consisting of 67 bags of assorted grains, was abandoned along with ammunition, suggesting a hasty retreat by the insurgents.

Despite the challenging terrain and the constant risk of IEDs, Nigerian troops have exhibited unwavering commitment and have successfully recovered a substantial number of vehicles and weapons from the terrorists. This includes the neutralization of an alleged Amir in Garin Munzo and the clearance of several new camps.

As part of the broader campaign, the 26 Task Force Brigade cleared Boko Haram enclaves in Amadaga villages, while the 27 Task Force Brigade made significant progress in the area of Gol. The 159 Battalion and 199 Special Forces Battalion, together with the Civilian Joint Task Force, cleared additional enclaves without encountering enemy forces.

These operations have not only dealt a blow to the terrorist infrastructure in the region but have also led to the recovery of essential supplies that will no longer be available to support the insurgents’ cause.

High-ranking ISWAP commanders are reported to be on the run, but the Nigerian troops are determined to continue their relentless pursuit, aiming to ensure the safety and security of the region from the grasp of terrorism.