Mass raid on Boko Haram stronghold frees captives

By Kate Hassett

Mass raid on Boko Haram stronghold frees captives
Nigerian army reportedly free hundreds of captured women and children in Boko Haram raid.

Nigerian army troops have reportedly rescued 338 people who were held captive at suspected Boko Haram terrorist camps this week.

During the military operation, at least 30 Boko Haram terrorists were killed according to a statement released by the Nigerian army.

Amongst the rescued were 192 children, 138 women and eight men. The army also noted the recovery of masses of arms and ammunition.

The raids were conducted over two camps on the fringes of the insurgents’ stronghold in Sambisa Forest, in the Bulajilin and Manawashe villages.

The hostages have been taken to a safety zone in a camp for displaced persons situated in the nearby Adamawa state, according to the army.

According to local reports, the 219 girls kidnapped in April last year, were not among those rescued.

The army also issued a statement alerting the nation to their suppression of Boko Haram’s alleged suicide bombing mission, that was to occur in the Adamawa state.

“We shall continue to decisively deal with Boko Haram terrorists until they are defeated,” it read, asking that residents cooperate with the military and security agencies.

Whilst Nigerian troops have rescued hundreds of captives this year, there are still thousands more who have fallen victim to the insurgents.

According to Amnesty International, an estimated 20,000 people have been killed as a result of the uprising, with over 2.3 million people being displaced from their homes.

 handout from the Nigerian army showing some of the 338 people freed from Boko Haram camps. Photograph: Nigerian army/AFP/Getty Images
handout from the Nigerian army showing some of the 338 people freed from Boko Haram camps. Photograph: Nigerian army/AFP/Getty Images

 

 

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Print Recipe

BECOME A MiNDFOOD SUBSCRIBER TODAY

Let us keep you up to date with our weekly MiNDFOOD e-newsletters which include the weekly menu plan, health and news updates or tempt your taste buds with the MiNDFOOD Daily Recipe. 

Member Login