DHQ: Troops killed 40 terrorists, arrested 259 criminals in one week

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says 40 terrorists were killed and 259 others arrested across the country in one week.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Edward Buba, director of defence media operations, said terrorists were eliminated in synchronised operations between the ground and air forces on terrorist enclaves and hideouts.

Buba said in the north-east, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised seven terrorists, arrested eight and rescued 19 hostages.

He said the troops of Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke in the north-central killed four terrorists, arrested 16, rescued eight kidnapped persons and recovered arms and ammunition.

In the north-west, Buba said the troops of Operations Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch took out nine terrorists, arrested six, rescued 15 persons abducted and recovered four AK47 rifles, two dane guns, 40 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 84 rounds of 12.7mm ammo, 19 magazines.

The defence spokesperson said that the air component of Hadarin Daji had on December 16, conducted air interdictions on the enclaves of two terrorist leaders — Rabe and Alhaji Maidawa in Danmusa and Kankara LGAs of Katsina state.

He said the targets were acquired and attacked with rockets and cannons in multiple passes.

“The battle damage assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralised and their structures as well as logistics were destroyed,” NAN quoted Buba as saying.

“Also, the air component of Operation Whirl Punch conducted air interdiction on terrorists while withdrawing to their hideouts.

“Accordingly, targets were trailed and acquired as well as engaged with precision munition. The battle damage assessment and local sources confirmed that several terrorists, including key leadership, were neutralised in the air strike.

“Also, the air component provided close support and evacuation for troops in distress.”

According to Buba, the troops recovered 72 assorted weapons and 338  ammunition, adding that they also rescued 80 hostages during the period.