In a significant move against terrorism, Operation Lake Sanity III, a component of Operation Hadin Kai, has successfully dismantled a concealed bread production facility operated by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in the Maisani area of the Timbuktu Triangle within Borno State‘s Damboa local government area.
This development was disclosed by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who confirmed that the combined efforts of the 199 Special Forces Battalion, Hybrid Forces, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) led to the discovery during an extensive exploitation mission into the terrorists’ stronghold on Sunday.
Makama revealed, “Sources have disclosed that the factory was completely destroyed, with the seized items including two Lister generating plants, one baking machine, and an assortment of baking materials.”
The operation took place amidst a week-long clearance campaign aimed at eradicating terrorist hideouts in the Timbuktu Triangle—a notorious region known for harboring extremist groups, encompassing areas such as Buk 1, 2, and 3, Talala, Ajigin, Dusula, Abulam, and Gorgi.
Highlighting the tactics based difficulties encountered by the troops due to the challenging terrain, which includes heavily guarded camps concealed under dense vegetation and numerous improvised explosive devices (IEDs), Makama emphasized the unwavering determination of the troops.
He stated, “Despite the intricate terrain marked by highly fortified camps often concealed beneath thick foliage and the availability of IEDs planted in various locations within the Timbuktu Triangle, the troops showed consistent combat efficiency.”
“These terrorist cells have been primarily responsible for various disruptive activities such as ambushes, assaults, and the deployment of IEDs/mines, primarily targeting the Damboa roads, the Damaturu-Maiduguri Main Supply Route, and other significant locations including Askira, Buratai, and Buni Yadi, along with the sabotage of the high-tension transmission line linking Borno and Yobe State.”
The successful operation signifies a significant blow to ISWAP’s logistical capabilities and underscores the continued commitment of the Nigerian armed forces to counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
Reacting to the development, military spokesperson, Colonel Isa Ado, commended the troops for their bravery and dedication, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts to rid the region of terrorist activities.
Ado stated, “The dismantling of the ISWAP-operated bread production facility represents a crucial milestone in our ongoing counter-insurgency operations. We remain resolute in our determination to eliminate all terrorist elements and restore peace and security to the affected areas.”
The Nigerian military, in collaboration with regional partners and stakeholders, continues to intensify efforts aimed at degrading terrorist infrastructure, disrupting their supply lines, and apprehending key leaders to ensure lasting peace and stability in the Northeast region.
As the fight against terrorism persists, the government urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in the quest for lasting peace and security.
