Nigerian security forces have reported new gains in operations against suspected Boko Haram fighters and other criminal networks in Yobe State, northeastern Nigeria.
According to the military, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out a night ambush east of Azare Village in Gujba Local Government Area at around 11 p.m. on September 21.
The troops reportedly encountered suspected fighters and engaged them in a gunfight. Four suspects were subsequently arrested during an operation to search the area.
The military said troops recovered several items, including bicycles, a quantity of groceries, a sheep and spent 7.62mm ammunition casings. Blood traces were also reportedly found in the area, which the military said could indicate casualties among fleeing suspects.
In a separate development, the military reported that 11 suspected terrorists surrendered to troops between September 15 and 22.
Security forces also arrested nine suspected drug dealers during a patrol in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area, on September 19. The suspects were reportedly found with suspected illicit drugs and cannabis, mobile phones and cash before being handed over to Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.
The Nigerian military said the operations are part of continued efforts to disrupt terrorist and criminal networks and restrict their freedom of movement across northeastern Nigeria.
The latest developments come as Nigerian security forces continue operations against armed groups operating in the region.