By Augustine Ehikioya
Impressed with the Lake Chad’s local communities’ supports in combating terrorist threats, the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, has commended their contributions.
As Operation Lake Sanity ll continues, he noted that the communities have shown support for ongoing operations by always supporting the troops.
A case in point, according to a statement by the Chief Military Public Information Officer, N’djamena – Chad, Lieutanant Colonel, Abubakar Abdullahi, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), was on 7 April, 2024, in Sector 1, Mora, Cameroon, “when Boko Haram terrorists targeted fishermen in Gourkuma, within the Blangua in Extreme North region of Cameroon.
“The attack took a fatal turn when the terrorists killed one fisherman. However, in a courageous act of self-defense, another fisherman fought back with a paddle, successfully neutralizing one terrorist and seizing a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) along with its ammunition.”
The statement added “In another instance, on 19 April, 2024, the vigilance of the Baga community in Sector 3 Nigeria led to the discovery of 323 x rounds of 7.62mm ammunition hidden in a septic tank at a building site undergoing renovations. This was reported to the troops of the 403 Amphibious Brigade.
“Furthermore, on 4 May, 2024, fishermen in the Kwatan Aikawa made a discovery while fishing in the lake. They found some arms comprising 2 x AK-47 rifles, 2 magazines, 76 x rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and one hand grenade, promptly reporting this to the troops.” it stated.
These acts of bravery and vigilance by the local communities within the MNJTF’s Area of Operation, the statement noted, have been key in isolating terrorists and providing critical support to the national troops.
“The MNJTF continues to advocate for increased cooperation from local communities, highlighting the success and importance of such partnerships in maintaining the safety and security of the region,” the statement said.
