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The Nigerian Military claims killing more than 56 terrorists in Alafia forest in Borno State, believed to be a stronghold of the militants.
A statement by the Defence Headquarters revealed that Nigerian security forces launched ground and air operations on locations in the forest about 21km from Bama, leading to the death of the terrorists, with two soldiers sustaining injuries.
The military explained that the operations were targeted at frustrating a renewed effort by the terrorists to establish a new camp in the location.
Air and land bombardments are continuing in different locations where terrorists have been reportedly sighted.
One of such is an island on Lake Chad where the military says troops of the multi-national joint task force have foiled an attempt by terrorists who were massing up there with an intention to carry out attack on some Nigerian communities.
Seven of the terrorists died in the operation while others flee in different directions towards Niger and Chad Republic.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj. General Chris Olukolade, in a telephone interview with Channels Television said that military operations had been successful so far.
He said that there were no civilian casualties in the Alafia forest operation.
“We have made sufficient and very good progress in containing the activities of terrorists,” he said.
Meanwhile, eight people have been reportedly killed and several others injured after suspected Boko Haram sect members opened fire on guests at a bachelor’s party in Tashan Alade village, Borno State, North East Nigeria.
Eye witnesses told Reuters news agency that three Boko Haram members came on motorcycles at about 11 o’ clock on Sunday night and shot indiscriminately.
