‘Boko Haram not in control of Damasak’ — army releases video evidence

The Nigerian army says Boko Haram insurgents are not in control of Damasak, a community in Mobbar LGA of Borno state. 

The insurgents had attacked villages around Damasak on Wednesday night, leaving several residents displaced. 

Mohammed Yerima, the army’s spokesperson, in a statement on Thursday, said reports that the insurgents overran the area were misinformation. 

“There was an attack by the terrorists sometime yesterday but they were effectively repelled by own troops,” he said. 

“As we speak, troops are in total control of the general area and as can be seen in the attached video, the Commander of  5 Brigade, Brig Gen SS Tilawan, is driving round the town earlier this afternoon to assess the general situation following the cowardly attack by the terrorists who sneaked in from the northern flank yesterday in active collaboration of some local informants.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to assure residents of Damasak and adjoining communities to remain calm as mop operation by the troops are ongoing to flush out the remnant of the terrorists who attacked a section of the town.”

Yerima also released a video showing SS Tilawan, the 5 brigade commander, moving around the streets with his soldiers. 

“Today is the 15th of April, everything is working in Damasak,” the commander can be heard saying. 

In the video, some traders were also seen going about their businesses. 

Below is the video: