*MNJTF TROOPS NEUTRALISE NOTORIOUS TERRORIST COMMANDER 'ABU FATIMA' IN BORNO STATE*
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has confirmed the neutralisation of Abu Fatima, a high-profile terrorist commander with a bounty of N100 million on his head.
Chief Military Public information Officer Army MNJTF, Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba in a press statement on Friday confirmed that this operation took place in the early hours of Friday in the northern region of Borno State by the courageous troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) operating in Sector 3, Monguno, Nigeria.
Osoba explained that the meticulously planned mission focused on the Kukawa axis near the Lake Chad region and was executed by the elite units of the 19 Brigade and Air Component .
"The primary goal was to eliminate Abu Fatima, a key architect behind numerous attacks in the area.
"Upon engaging with the terrorists, the troops were met with gunfire. However, they swiftly retaliated with overwhelming force, resulting in the capture of the notorious leaders Abu Fatima, Abu Maryam, and Abu Modu, all of whom sustained serious injuries. Many of their associates fled in chaos.
"Later Abu Fatima and his two deputies succumbed to their injuries due to significant blood loss. It is noteworthy that Abu Fatima was implicated in several IED attacks against our forces, including a recent incident that claimed the lives of five soldiers." he said
The MNJTF Chief Military Public information Officer Army noted that the operation yielded substantial recoveries, including two primed IEDs contained in 4-liter kegs, one pressure plate, two motorcycles (one with a spare tire), three AK-47 rifles, nine AK-47 magazines, and one hand grenade.
He added that, the troops recovered a PKT ammo belt with 22 rounds, 48 rounds of 7.62 MM Special ammunition, three bandoliers, one push-to-talk radio, and a mobile phone, along with six AA batteries, detonation cords, and various IED fabrication materials.
Abu Fatima was a top priority on the security agencies' most-wanted list due to his involvement in numerous high-profile terrorist activities across the Lake Chad basin. His elimination represents a significant blow to terrorist operations in the region and highlights our unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security
The Force Commander, Major General Godwin Mutkut, praised the bravery and dedication of all troops involved in this vital operation and urged them to remain resolute in their collective mission to eradicate terrorist threats.
This operation marks a crucial advancement in the ongoing military efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and reestablish stability in the Lake Chad region. The MNJTF remains steadfast in its mission and will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of all communities in the area.