The Nigerian Army has said there is confusion and severe apprehension in the camps of the Islamic State of West Africa Province especially amongst its top ranking commanders following the recent unprecedented mass surrendering of Boko Haram terrorists.
At least about 1500 Boko Haram terrorists in Bama Operational area surrendered to Nigerian troops between August 2 and 4, 2021.
The incident had depleted the strength and members of Islamic State of West Africa Province and “drastically dwindled their overall fighting efficiency,” the army said.
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu,
the Director Army Public Relations, said in a statement on Monday night that it is against this back drop that the terrorists group opted for the use of propaganda via AMAQ Terrorists Media Wing with the aim to portray the group as if it is still a potent force in the North East.
“The current trend of apprehension in their camps was further aggravated by the recent alarming turn out of members of the terrorists group, who came out in droves with their families to lay down their arms and surrender to own troops at Mafa Local Government Area on August 14, 2021.
“A total of 186 Boko Haram Terrorists members led by their Amir, Manye Aga, comprising 67 adult males, 54 adult females and 65 children surrendered to troops of Operation HADIN KAI at Forward Operational Base (FOB) Ajiri. Items recovered from the surrendered terrorists include, several AK 47 rifles and magazines, a locally made pistol and 8 locally fabricated daggers.
”Similarly, on August 15, 2021, the Theatre took custody of additional Boko Haram fighters, comprising of 4 adult males, 11 adult females and 18 children from Landanli, Azah, Ngaridua and Kondilla villages, who surrendered to own troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, Banki Junction in Bama.
“ISWAP is yet to come to terms with the reality of its current predicament, which has posed serious negative impact on its prowess.
“It is also worthy of note that the terrorists are overwhelmed with palpable fear and are making desperate efforts to halt the ongoing surrendering of their fighters from the Tumbus and Sambisa axis, ” he stated.
Brigadier General Nwachukwu also said that “the Nigerian Military is more resolute in intensifying both kinetic and non kinetic efforts in the fight against insurgency, banditry and sundry crimes in the country.