Major Onslaught as Troops arrest Chinese National, ISWAP Collaborators — DHQ
In a recent deliberate and coordinated military action targeted at disabling extremists logistics powerhouse, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a Chinese national and their collaborators, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said.
Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated this Friday during the military’s bi-weekly briefing in Abuja.
He noted that the arrests were carried out between June 5 and 7 in Kukawa and Ngala Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as Geidam LGA in Yobe State.
“Among those arrested is a Chinese national suspected of providing logistical support to terrorist elements,” Kangye stated. According to him, items recovered from the suspects include a vehicle, a motorcycle, mobile phones, a Chinese international passport, and ₦10,000 in cash.
According to him, the suspects are believed to have aided members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), the two extremist groups responsible for years of insurgency in the region.
He said the arrests were part of a coordinated operations and onslaughts between June 6 and 10 across Gwoza, Ngala, and Marte LGAs in Borno State, as well as Bade and Gujba LGAs in Yobe State.
“In the course of the operations, troops neutralized several terrorists, rescued three kidnapped victims, and recovered arms, ammunition, IEDs, vehicles, and motorcycles,” Kangye said. “Additionally, terrorist camps and logistics hubs were destroyed.”
Major Kangye added that continued military pressure is forcing militants to surrender in growing numbers. “Between June 6 and 11, a number of terrorists including men, women, and children laid down their arms and surrendered to troops,” he said.
“All arrested suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation,” the Defence Headquarters confirmed.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying pressure on terror groups and eliminating their support systems in order to restore lasting peace in the affected regions.
He said the dedication is exemplified by the “tireless efforts of our personnel who work tirelessly day and night to protect our borders and maintain security. Their resilience in the face of challenges is truly commendable and serves as a testament to their unwavering loyalty to the nation”.
