The Nigerien defense and security forces (FDS) killed 15 Boko Haram fighters and arrested 20 others during clashes that occurred between June 18 and June 23 in Niger’s Diffa region near the Nigerian border.
An official source said the operation was in retaliation of the attack which led to the death of 38 persons in Niger’s Gueskerou community on June 17.
The FDS launched ground and air operations on the sect.
Moustapha Ledru, spokesman for country’s defense ministry, confirmed the development in a statement, disclosing that one armoured vehicle was recovered and 20 motorcycles destroyed during the operation.
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Ledru said none of the officers who partook in the battle sustained injuries.
He quoted Karidjo Mahamadou, the country’s national defense minister, as hailing the FDS for the “brilliant operation”, encouraging them to continue with the fight geared towards restoring peace and security.
For over three months, Niger, just like other countries in the Lake Chad Basin, has come under deadly attacks from Boko Haram, leaving tens of civilians and soldiers dead.
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Nigerien forces are currently engaged in a large scale operation against the sect with the aim of securing the Lake Chad basin and also prevent further attacks in the region.
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