Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational successes as top leaders of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) and 76 foot soldiers of the insurgents surrendered.
The insurgents reportedly abandoned their enclaves and surrendered to the troops amid intensified military pressure.
This was made known in a statement issued on Monday by the JTF’s Acting Military Information Officer, Mohammed Goni.
According to Goni, the surrendered insurgents are currently undergoing profiling and debriefing.
“In another major breakthrough, a fresh group of top ISWAP terrorist leaders have abandoned their enclaves and surrendered to troops within the North-East theatre of operations.
“Among those who surrendered are key members of the terrorist network due to relentless military pressure.
“They are currently in a secure location undergoing profiling, debriefing and other established procedures in accordance with extant operational protocols.” Goni wrote.
The development, according to the army spokesperson, highlights the devastating impact of the sustained offensive by Operation HADIN KAI, which continues to dismantle terrorist strongholds, disrupt command and logistics structures, and deny the insurgents freedom of action across the theatre.
Goni held that persistent military operations have continued to degrade the terrorists’ combat capabilities while eroding confidence within their ranks and leadership.
He disclosed that the other 76 terrorist foot soldiers surrendered to the troops with some of their family members within the last one week.
Goni said the operational gains demonstrate the effectiveness of the Nigerian military’s comprehensive counter terrorism and counter insurgency strategy, combining precision combat operations, intelligence led engagements and coordinated joint efforts with partners.
He reiterated the troops’ commitment to defeating terrorism.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its mission to completely defeat terrorism and restore lasting peace and security across the North-East.
“The pressure on the remaining terrorist elements will continue unabated until they are completely neutralised or forced to surrender.” Goni said.