In a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, Nigerian troops have eliminated a top terrorist commander, Amir Abu Fatima, during a high-risk operation in northern Borno State.
According to Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, Defence Headquarters, troops from the 101 Special Forces Battalion, operating under the 19 Brigade of Sector 3 Operation HADIN KAI, launched a special operation in the early hours of Thursday from the Kukawa axis.
“The Special Forces conducted a commando strike deep into the enclave of the terrorists with the sole intent of getting Amir Abu Fatima,” said Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations. “He had a bounty of 100 million Naira placed on him for any credible intelligence that could lead to his capture.”
The operation reportedly involved a fierce gun battle between the troops and the terrorists. “The superior firepower of our gallant troops resulted in the death of Abu Fatima, along with his bomb and IED-making experts,” Gen. Kangye stated. The troops also destroyed the insurgents’ camp and recovered a cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, magazines loaded with 7.62mm special ammunition, and other ordnance. IED-making materials were also seized and destroyed.
This operation marks a significant step forward in ongoing efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to dismantle terrorist networks in the region.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to lawfully conducting operations with strict adherence to human rights and global best practices.
“The AFN remains focused on our determination to defeat terrorism, banditry, and other criminalities in the country,” said Gen. Kangye. “We urge all citizens to go about their daily activities without fear and continue to share credible information with our troops to aid ongoing operations.”
The military further assured the public of its readiness to safeguard national security, support allies, and maintain regional stability.