•Troops call on hiding terrorists to surrender and embrace peace
Senator Iroegbu
As the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) intensifies its efforts in Operation Lake Sanity 2, significant progress is being made in countering the menace of Boko Haram in the Lake Chad Region. In recent developments, six Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered to MNJTF troops, marking a substantial blow to the insurgency.
According to a statement released by the Chief Military Public Information Officer, Lt-Col. Abdullahi Abubakar, the surrenders occurred between April 17 and April 27, 2024, across Nigeria and Cameroon. The surrendered terrorists cited various reasons for their defection, including internal crisis within the Boko Haram group and the positive influence of MNJTF operations in the region.
Among the surrendered individuals is Alhaji Ali, a 19-year-old member of Boko Haram’s Buduma faction, who surrendered to troops of the 403 Amphibious Brigade in Monguno, Nigeria. Investigations revealed Ali’s three-year affiliation with the terrorist group and his disillusionment with its activities.
Additionally, Haoudou Sedik and Kadja Ousman, originating from Chad, surrendered to troops of Sector 1 in Blangua, Cameroon, further weakening the terrorist network’s grip on the region.
Mohammed Abdulraman, along with his wife and two children, surrendered at the Kwatam Turare axis in Baga, Nigeria, highlighting internal strife within the group and the impact of MNJTF’s Operation Nashrul Salam in influencing their decision to defect.
Yusuf Umaru, abducted by Boko Haram militants in 2020, surrendered in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria, shedding light on the hardships faced by individuals coerced into joining terrorist ranks.
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The MNJTF has urged other Boko Haram insurgents hiding in the Lake Chad islands and surrounding communities to lay down their arms and embrace peace. Emphasizing their commitment to restoring stability to the region, MNJTF encourages terrorists to follow the path of those who have already surrendered.
These recent surrenders underscore the effectiveness of collaborative efforts by MNJTF forces in combating terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin. With each surrender, the grip of Boko Haram weakens, bringing hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.