Seven suspected notorious Boko Haram terrorists have surrendered to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) troops in Damasak, Borno State, Nigeria, handing over a substantial cache of arms and equipment.

The surrender, facilitated by troops operating under Sector 3 Monguno, represents a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad Region.

The suspected terrorists, identified as Mallam Baba Ibrahim (19), Malam Bamai Ali (20), Mallam Jundu Ali (19), Mallam Abba Ali (25), Mallam Abubakar Mohammed (20), Tijjani Ali (20), and Mallam Ali Mommudu (25), voluntarily turned themselves in to MNJTF troops at Walada village in Damasak following sustained offensive operations.

“This surrender is a testament to the effectiveness of our ongoing operations,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF.

“These individuals have recognised the futility of their fight and have chosen the path of peace.”

The surrendered terrorists confessed to involvement in numerous terrorist activities across Northern Borno, expressing exhaustion with the conflict.

They admitted to previously fearing they would be killed if they surrendered.

The armaments surrendered by the suspects included two RPG tubes, four RPG bombs, an AK-47 rifle, an HK 21 German machine gun, and eight empty magazines.

They also handed over two horses, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 715 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 51 NATO rounds, 12 mobile phones, six small solar panels, two bandoliers, and four knives, among other items.

“The sheer volume of weapons and equipment surrendered highlights the scale of their operations,” Lieutenant Colonel Osoba noted. “Their surrender will undoubtedly disrupt terrorist activities in the region.”

The former insurgents are now providing valuable intelligence to the MNJTF, which is expected to aid in further operations.

“We encourage other terrorists to take this opportunity to surrender,” Lieutenant Colonel Osoba urged.

“Laying down arms is a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace in the Lake Chad region. The MNJTF remains committed to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring stability throughout the area.”

The successful surrender underscores the MNJTF’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace and security to the region.