Boko Haram: Military Intensifies Cordon-and-search Operations In Maiduguri
BY AMOS DUNIA, ABUJA – As part of its counter insurgency operations, the Theatre Command Operation of LAFIYA DOLE has intensified its routine clearance as well as cordon and search operations in urban and rural areas in Borno State.
A statement by Lieutenant Colonel Kingsley Samuel of the Theatre Command of the Operation LAFIYA DOLE said the clearance operations effort being carried out by the military has been yielding successes.
Lt-Col Samuel said the development has forced Boko Haram terrorists to change tactics and resort to employment of suicide bombers to target military locations and the populace, stressing that this has necessitated the need to intensify Cordon-and-search operations in Maiduguri metropolis and environment.
According to him: “In the last one week, cordon-and-search operations were conducted in Jiddari–Polo, Muna Garage, Jakana amongst several other areas.
“On 10th August 2017, Theatre Command received information from one of its credible sources that some high value BHT suspects had infiltrated into Pompomari Bye Pass.
“It therefore became expedient to take pre-emptive action by combing the general area through a cordon and search operations.”
He further said that the operation was successfully conducted as over 30 houses were searched, adding one of such included a property which was said to be occupied by United Nations Staff, although the property did not carry a UN designation.
According to him; “On the whole, operation in the general area was successfully concluded, but no arrest was made because the suspects were not found.
The command assured members of the public that the operations are being conducted to safeguard lives and properties, but not targeted at any individual or group.
This is just as the military cautioned the public to remain law-abiding and avoid peddling rumours that may cause disaffection.
