From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian army has said its soldiers on counter insurgency operation in the north east have rescued over 700 farmers and fishermen held captive by the Boko Haram terrorists.
The rescued persons, according to the Deputy Director Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Colonel Timothy Antigha, were used as farm workers by the terrorists while in captivity.
Antigha, in a statement, said their rescue may not be unconnected with the recent successful Operation DEEP PUNCH 2, conducted at Chikun Gudu and adjourning localities to rout the terrorists.
He said: “The follow up operation, which was conducted by the Nigerian Air Force and 38 Task Force Artillery Brigade, 8 Division, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, was targeted at destroying Boko Haram infrastructure and logistics, such as communication centers, fabrication yards, bomb making equipment, vehicles and other means of sustenance. “The ensuing collapse of their command structure and means of survival have, therefore, triggered the abandonment of the islands and escape of the abductees to Monguno.
“So far, over 700 former Boko Haram abductees, comprising adult males, females and children, have been received by troops of 242 Battalion in Monguno.
“Profiling of the displaced persons is on-going to ensure that no terrorist takes advantage of the situation to sneak into the town.
“Preliminary investigation will focus on finding out where wanted Boko Haram commanders have migrated to. Meanwhile, two pregnant women among the abductees put to bed yesterday in the holding centres.