Nigerian troops have rescued at least 178 hostages from Boko Haram following a military operation over the weekend that dismantled a number of the group's camps in northeastern Borno State, according to an army spokesman.
Tukur Gusau, a spokesman for the Nigerian Army's Seventh Division, said the offensive – which took place along the Aulari-in-Bama axis – had succeeded in clearing Boko Haram camps in Fadan, Shuwarin, Wulari, Ngoro Dauye, Jidori, Alikashiri, Kalzamari-Shuwa and Kalzamari-Kanuri, in addition to other areas.
"During the offensive, 178 people held captive by the terrorists were rescued, including 101 children and 67 women," Gusau said in a statement issued late Sunday.
He added that one Boko Haram commander had been "captured alive" – along with a number of other group members – and was currently "undergoing investigation."
"Troop morale remains high," he asserted. "They are determined to build on the successes achieved so far." - Ankara
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