In a bid to rid Marte and its neighbouring communities in Borno state from ISWAP and Boko Haram elements, Nigerian troops have continued to neutralize land mines laid on their paths by the terrorists. The troops have de-mined some communities and villages on the major routes to Marte. It was learned that the terrorists had laid landmines on the part leading to Marte to deter troops and apart from landmines, the terrorists’ infiltration of the civilian population in the community had prevented the military Air Task Force from launching aerial bombardments, to avoid collateral damages. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru had on Sunday issued a 48-hour dateline for troops to clear terrorists from Marte and adjoining villages, including Kirenowa, kirta, Wulgo, Chikingudo communities of in Borno State.
The COAS who undertook a surprise operational visit to Dikwa to commend Commanders and troops for protecting the town had assured them of the needed support to carry out the task, which he said must be done within 48 hours.
According to PRNigeria, a military intelligence officer said that the troops, who were spurred by Attahiru’s marching directive, have already demobilized several mines as they pushed further into the axis.
“Our troops, more than ever before, are committed to dealing with terrorists in the North-East. They have since, after the COAS’ charge, swung into action, with a view to liberating Marte and some adjoining communities.
“The terrorists’ attacks, have not dampened their morale in any way. Troops in Dikwa have also not been distracted. At the moment, we are intensifying our intelligence gathering mechanism to uncover terrorists’ informants,” he said.
Last week, terrorists attacked a military base in Dikwa and reportedly captured Marte. They invaded the community on motorcycles and light trucks mounted with Heavy Machine Guns (HMGs). They thereafter laid landmines on the road leading to the community.