The Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI has rejected claims by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP suggesting they still possess the strength to launch large-scale attacks on troops and civilians.
In a statement signed by its Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the task force said terrorists were circulating outdated images and recycled reports in a bid to mislead the public.
“The attention of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI has been drawn to a renewed propaganda campaign by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP, who are currently circulating old photographs and recycled media reports in a desperate attempt to mislead the public into believing they retain the capability to unleash mayhem on troops and law-abiding citizens,” the statement read.
“One such recycled publication is a 9 July 2020 report, which falsely resurfaces with bodies of soldiers and claims to be an ambush on Nigerian soldiers. Our fact-check mechanism shows that the report was posted a decade ago,” it added.
The task force stressed that the materials being shared do not reflect present-day security conditions.
“At no point recently has Operation HADIN KAI lost 20 soldiers,” the statement emphasised.
“The improved capabilities and well-coordinated air and ground assaults on the terrorists are yielding the required results to the disadvantage of the terrorists.”
Recent Operations
Highlighting recent gains, the JTF said troops recorded significant breakthroughs within the past week.
“Within the past one week alone, troops have delivered decisive blows on terrorist enclaves and logistics networks across multiple fronts.”
At Miyanti, Gajigana and Gajiram, insurgents attempting to regroup were confronted, leading to the recovery of weapons including anti-aircraft platforms, rocket bombs, machine guns and assorted rifles.
“At Chabbal checkpoint, vigilant troops intercepted logistics supplies and a cash sum of thirty-seven million naira intended to finance terrorist operations. This interception has dealt a major setback to their sustainment capability.”
In Komala, Konduga Local Government Area, troops engaged suspected insurgents along the Gidan Kaji axis.
“Sixteen insurgents were neutralised. Twenty bicycles, weapons and a cache of critical logistics items essential to the terrorists’ survival were recovered and destroyed,” the statement said.
Warning Against Propaganda
The JTF attributed the circulation of old images to what it described as psychological warfare.
“Unable to withstand the overwhelming operational pressure and battlefield dominance of troops, the terrorists have now resorted to psychological warfare, recycling outdated images and misleading publications to project a false sense of strength.”
The task force urged the public and media organisations to verify information before sharing.
“The Joint Task Force urges members of the public and media organisations to verify information from credible official sources before sharing content that may aid terrorist propaganda.
“Citizens are encouraged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities and support security agencies with timely and actionable information.”
Reaffirming its stance, the JTF concluded: “Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute, focused and committed to the total defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and stability in the North East.”
What you should know
Operation HADIN KAI has dismissed renewed propaganda by Boko Haram and ISWAP, saying recycled images and old reports are being used to mislead the public.
The military says recent operations across the North East have weakened insurgent logistics and regrouping efforts, urging citizens to rely on verified information.