Nigerian troupes recapture Banki town, destroy Boko Haram camps

Military authorities disclosed yesterday that Nigerian troops have reclaimed Banki town in Borno state from the Boko Haram insurgent group. The Army in a press statement said that during a counter insurgency operation, the soldiers destroyed seven Boko Haram camps and successfully detonated seven Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). According to the statement, the troops also discovered and detonating 13 IEDs between Darel Jamal and Banki. The statement said that, “it is important to note that major economic and trading activities between Nigeria, Cameroon and Central African countries takes place in the town. “In the confrontation that ensued to recapture the town, several Boko Haram terrorists were killed and several others were captured alive between Banki junction and Ngorosoye. “The recapture of the strategic town was facilitated by concerted efforts of the Nigerian Air Force and close liaison with Cameroon’s Army. “The Chief of Army Staff’s goodwill message delivered through Major General YM Abubakar, the Commander ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ has gone a long way to boost troops’ morale and prod them into action. “The recapture of this town apart restoring Nigeria’s territory law, would improve the economic activities in that area”. Continuing the Army said, “in a related development, a renowned terrorist trying to escape with his family, was intercepted by troops between Pulka and Gwoza and has surrendered himself to the troops. “Efforts to consolidate on the gains made by troops towards ridding all parts of Nigerian territory of Boko Haram terrorists are ongoing.” Following the recapture of Banki by Nigerian troops from Boko Haram terrorists on Friday, military authorities have disclosed that over 200 members of the terrorist’s organization, surrendered on Saturday as troops embarked on mop operations in the area. Banki town is renowned for important economic and strategic activities including fishing and the Borno town is located between Nigeria, Cameroon and Central African countries which make the town an important trading hub. During the previous encounters in the town, Nigerian troops not only captured the town, but several Boko Haram terrorists were captured alive while the terrorist who refused to surrender were killed in the military offensive. Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, confirmed the development.