Troops eliminate Boko Haram commander Abba Alai, crush terrorists in Borno

Nigerian Army troops of 21 Armoured Brigade in conjunction with 199 Special forces and the Civilian Joint Task Force have recorded major victories in ongoing counterterrorism operations, eliminating a top Boko Haram commander, Abba Alai (Amirul Khahid of Alafa), and neutralizing several insurgents in coordinated offensives in Garin Fallujah and Gwoza, Borno State. 

The clearance operation, based on credible intelligence, targeted a well-fortified terrorist enclave where insurgents were regrouping to launch attacks. 

Troops launched a ruthless assault, engaging the terrorists in intense combat. Overpowered by superior firepower, the insurgents attempted to flee but suffered heavy casualties.  

Among those neutralized was Abba Alai, a notorious commander known for orchestrating deadly attacks across the region. 

Recovered weapons from the operation include: One AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 rifle magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one radio set, a DSHK heavy machine gun barrel, one motorcycle and assorted medical supplies.

In a separate operation in Gwoza Local Government Area, troops strategically deployed as a blocking force to prevent terrorists from escaping Sambisa Forest engaged insurgents in Gobara village.  

The fierce battle forced the terrorists into a chaotic retreat, leading to the recovery of: 57 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three AK-47 rifle magazines, a locally fabricated dane gun and two prototype firearms suspected to be used for terrorist training.

During the operation, troops also rescued an elderly woman who had been held hostage by the terrorists for 10 years. 

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their relentless pursuit of terrorists and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to eliminating insurgency in Nigeria.