Over 700 farmers, fishermen and members of their families
who were hitherto held by Boko Haram terrorists as farm workers have fled the
various islands in Lake Chad to Monguno. The exodus of the former Boko Haram
abductees is not unconnected to a follow up operation which was conducted a few
days ago to exploit the gains of the recent successful Operation DEEP PUNCH 2
in Chikun Gudu and adjourning localities.
The follow up operation which was conducted by the Nigerian
Air Force and 38 Task Force Artillery Brigade, 8 Division, Operation LAFIYA
DOLE, was targeted at destroying Boko Haram infrastructure and logistics; such
as communication centers, fabrication yards, bomb making equipment, vehicles
and other means of sustenance. The ensuing collapse of their command
structure and means of survival have therefore triggered the abandonment of the
islands and escape of the abductees
to Monguno.
to Monguno.
So far, over 700 former Boko Haram abductees, comprising
adult males, females and children have been received by troops of 242 Battalion
in Monguno. Profiling of the displaced persons is on- going to ensure that no
terrorist takes advantage of the situation to sneak into the town. Preliminary
Investigation will focus on finding out where wanted Boko Haram Commanders have
migrated to. Meanwhile, 2 pregnant women among the abductees gave birth
yesterday in the holding centers.
It could be recalled that 2 weeks ago the initial wave of
Boko Haram abductees who regained freedom following an offensive military
operation in Chikun Gudu were similarly received in Monguno.
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