The Nigerian Army has recaptured Gwoza in Borno State from Boko Haram, according to military sources.
Gwoza was recaptured today, March 27, after days of fighting and air strikes by troops.
The news and details of the operation were disclosed by the Nigerian Defence Headquarters via a statement.
The statement reads:
“Just this morning, the gallant troops of the Nigerian military in a concerted and well-coordinated land and air operations have liberated Gwoza, the headquarters of their so called caliphate which they renamed ‘darul hikima’.”
“This was preceded by successive sack of terrorists from towns and villages leading to Gwoza, the main objective. Several of the terrorists have died and many of them captured in the process.”
“A lot of arms and ammunition have been recovered and the administrative Headquarters completely destroyed. A massive cordon and search has commenced to locate any of the fleeing terrorists or hostages in their custody.”
“As at yesterday, the military has been able to take over virtually all the enclaves and hideouts where the terrorists were marauding. It is observed that some of the terrorists are currently fleeing towards border areas.”
“The fleeing terrorists will expectedly run into subsequent encounter with contingents of partners in the Multinational Joint Task Force who have been mandated to contain them accordingly. The mop up operation in Gwoza and other liberated areas will continue in order to ensure that no vestiges of terrorists or terrorism remain in our country.”
“The Nigerian military and security agencies therefore thank Nigerians and our partners in the sub-region who have consistently encouraged and supported us in the course of these operations. The military is more than ever before determined to once and for all stamp out every trace of terrorism and insecurity in our country.”
“All citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report every movement or assemblage of suspicious characters to the security forces so that NEVER AGAIN shall the evil elements re-group to terrorize or cause mayhem in our country.”
President Goodluck Jonathan had earlier promised that Gwoza would be free of terrorists by Friday (today).
However, the abducted Chibok girls were not found in Gwoza despite a freed Boko Haram captive saying that they were being held there.
The over 200 girls were abducted by Boko Haram on April 14, 2014 and most of them are still in captivity.
