The Nigerian Army Operations Media Coordinator Col Aminu Iliyasu has announced on Thursday that no fewer than eight fighters of Boko Haram and members of their family including six women and eight children have surrendered to troops of 152 Task Force Battalion deployed at Banki Town in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the statement released by the military spokesperson, the terrorists include Tija Bo Isa, Ba Amodu Aba Kaka, Modu Zantalami, Malam Zantalami, Bakura Aba Kaka (Boko Haram Logistics Supplier), Bulama Modu Zantalami, Abukar Izahi and Bana Katum.
The statement reads: “During preliminary interrogation, the surrendered terrorists regretted their involvement in the dastardly acts of killing and abduction of innocent people as well as attacks on security agencies.
“They equally disclosed that their leadership has been in disarray for the past four months since the renewed offensive actions by the troops against their enclaves leading to high casualties on their foot soldiers amidst serious dislocation of their command structures.
“They further disclosed that many of their erstwhile colleagues are wandering in the forest and willing to give up their unholy adventure but are afraid of being killed by the security agencies.
“They therefore call on them to take the bold decision and surrender to any Nigerian Army unit closest to them as the safety of their lives are guaranteed.”
Troops of 5 Brigade Mobile Strike Team, in conjunction with Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion II and elements of 145 Battalion (Main), also rescued 126 Boko Haram captives while conducting clearance operations within the Gudumbali general area in Guzamala Local Government of Borno State.
The rescued victims comprised of 36 adult males, 36 adult females and 54 children.