The Operation Lafiya Dole Theatre Command has said it rescued 7,898 persons in its anti-terrorism operations in the North-East between February 2 and yesterday.
The Theatre Commander, Major-Gen. Lucky Irabor, said this while addressing newsmen in Maiduguri, yesterday, pointing out that some of the persons were suspected Boko Haram terrorists arrested during counter-terrorism operations.
He said: “A total of 7,898 civilians were rescued/arrested as Boko Haram terrorists. Two others surrendered to our troops during our operations between February 2 and March 1.”
Eight foreigners, comprising four Chadians, three Nigeriens and one Cameroonian were also arrested. “On February 16, at about 2p.m., our troops deployed at Mafa intercepted one. Some residents fetching fire wood informed the troops that the suspect was trying to infiltrate into Mafa town.
“He confessed to being a Boko Haram member, who is tired of their ideology and wanted to surrender. He is in custody undergoing interrogation.
“On February 21, at about 4.30p.m., we intercepted a suspected terrorist, a native of Bula-Umari village, who disguised as an IDP to gain access into Bani camp.
“N1.2 million and CA160,000 were found in his possession, concealed in a black sack.”
