More captives of Boko Haram are now breathing the air of freedom following their liberation by Nigerian troops from the terrorists’ last stronghold in Sambisa Forest, Borno State, in the country’s North-East.

Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, disclosed this late last night in a statement, a copy of which was made available to News Express. He also gave details of casualties as well as the destruction and capture of more Boko Haram camps and deadly war weapons, including Anti-Aircraft Guns. The troops had on Tuesday rescued 293 women and girls from the formerly dreaded forest.

Said Col. Usman: “I wish to inform you that today’s evening, troops of 7 Division Nigerian Army also cleared several terrorists strong points and training camps within Sambisa forest, Borno State, Nigeria. The troops have also rescued additional women and children. They have been evacuated to a safety zone for further processing.

“During the encounter unfortunately we lost a soldier, while 4 others were wounded in action. The troops have also killed several Boko Haram field commanders and foot soldiers and destroyed 2 Armoured Personnel Carriers, 2 Buffalo vehicles mounted with Anti-Aircraft Guns, a truck and several Hilux vehicles. The gallant soldiers also recovered 1 Anti-Aircraft Gun, 1 General Purpose Machine Gun, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade and several AK-47 rifles. Sadly, 1 woman died and 8 other women sustained gunshot wounds.

“So far, the troops have destroyed 9 terrorist camps in the forest. This is in addition to the 4 destroyed yesterday. The destroyed camps include Wulari Bukar, Gangala, Anguwar Bakwai and Jigide. Others include Kotorima, Lagara Bello and Lagara Fulani among others. I am glad to say that troops’ morale is very high as they are poised to accomplish the task of destroying all terrorists camps and rescuing all those held hostage by the terrorists.”

•File photo shows jubilant women and children hailing troops of the Nigerian Army for liberating Gwoza town, also ion Borno State, from the grip of Boko Haram terrorists.

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