Troops of the joint task force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), foiled terrorist attacks on forward operating bases (FOBs) in Gajiram and Mairari in Borno State.

The troops also recovered weapons and other items, while two Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists, including a Qaid (commander), surrendered.

This is contained in a statement issued on Friday by Mohammed Goni, acting military information officer for Operation Hadin Kai, Maiduguri.

According to the statement, terrorists advancing towards FOB Gajiram in the Nganzai Local Government Area on September 17 were detected early by troops, supported by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets.

It said troops adopted defensive measures, while the air component provided close air support, forcing the terrorists to withdraw into adjoining areas.

The statement added that ISWAP terrorists later attacked FOB Mairari in the Guzamala Local Government Area but were repelled by troops with air support.

It said the engagement resulted in the recovery of four terrorists’ corpses, AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, RPG bombs and a camcorder.

It said some troops sustained injuries and were airlifted to hospital for treatment.

The statement said two JAS terrorists, including a Qaid, also surrendered to Sector 1 troops along the Miyanti-Darel-Jamel axis in Bama on September 16.

They surrendered with three AK-47 rifles, five magazines, a motorcycle and ammunition.

The theatre commander, Ibikunle Ajose, commended the troops and urged terrorists to surrender through established channels.

(NAN)