nigeria army resumes strike in sambisa forest

The Nigerian Army yesterday said it had resumed strikes deep in Sambisa forest, believed to be the remaining stronghold of the Boko Haram terrorists. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, disclosed this in a statement saying various units of the army had advanced deep into the forest clearing most of the camps therein, rescuing persons held captive, arresting some terrorists and destroying most of their weapons and equipment. He said advancing troops of the army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force were able to clear and destroy Boko Haram camps at Shuari, Adembe, Yerimari Kura, Yerimari Gana, Gonin Kurmi, Kore, Mainya Kore, and Lopere. Additionally, he said, the Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher Regiment had destroyed the terrorists camps at Dure, Dure Kore, Jokwa, as well as several other camps. He said: “The troops recovered foodstuffs, motorcycles, flags, Improvised Explosive Making Devices (IED) materials and military uniforms. “Among other discoveries were the terrorists tunnels, weapons and equipment. The soldiers also recovered 2,000 cows rustled from various persons over time and rescued women and children held captives by the Boko Haram. While the animals have been moved to Kanwuri, the rescued persons have been evacuated and are being given all the necessary support and assistance.” Usman revealed that during the encounter with the terrorists at Yerimari Gana a number of Boko Haram terrorists were killed and some suspected terrorists were arrested who are being interrogated. He however confirmed that a soldier sustained gun shot wound and fracture on the leg. Similarly, he said, while advancing to destroy Nefari terrorists camp, troops discovered and cleared three IEDs laid along the route. “The camp was successfully cleared and troops have continued their advance while a blocking force has been deployed to prevent infiltration and possible escape by the terrorists. The army spokesman noted that the troops morale was very high and being conscious of their set objective, they are unrelenting in their determination to defeat the Boko Haram terrorists. In a related development, Usman said, troops have also destroyed Boko Haram terrorists camps Bulagaije and Disa, Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State and recovered motorcycles, Dane guns and ammunition. source; thisday live