Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded a fresh wave of surrenders, with over 150 terrorists laying down their arms in the last one week.

The development marks a sharp rise from the 50 fighters who surrendered the previous week, according to the military.

The Acting Information Officer of OPHK, Captain Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Maiduguri.

He said the spike was the direct result of sustained intelligence-driven operations, increased battlefield pressure, and a mix of military and non-military engagements designed to break terrorist networks and push fighters to abandon the cause.

Goni noted that the mass disengagement points to mounting strain within insurgent camps, especially around movement,  logistics, supply routes and the ability to hold their members together.

“The surge underscores the cumulative effect of our sustained operations and the pressure we have maintained on terrorist elements across the theatre,” he stated.

The military spokesman also confirmed that arms and ammunition were recovered from some of those who turned themselves in, a sign that the pressure is biting harder.

According to Goni, Operation Hadin Kai’s strategy goes beyond kinetic action. It also includes strategic messaging, civil-military relations and other soft approaches aimed at countering extremist propaganda and encouraging defections.

He said these efforts are disrupting terrorist support structures, weakening their narratives and convincing more fighters that there is a path out.

All those who surrendered, he added, have been properly profiled and are being processed in line with extant procedures and the law.

The theatre command said it will not relent, but will rather build on the gains to further weaken recruitment and sustainment channels of terrorist groups.

The Defence Headquarters also commended the troops for their discipline and resilience, urging them to keep up the tempo and deny insurgents freedom of action.

“Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist networks, dismantling their structures, safeguarding civilians and paving the way for lasting peace in the North East,” the statement concluded.

Source: Vanguard News