A Federal High Court in Maiduguri, Borno State, has mandated the release of at least 313 suspected terrorists who were detained by the military.
The court made this decision due to insufficient evidence to prosecute the suspects after thorough investigation.
Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, the Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed this information during a briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
“Throughout the week, in compliance with a directive from the Federal High Court in Maiduguri, a total of 313 individuals detained on charges related to terrorism were set to be released to the Borno State government.
“The court issued the release order due to lack of evidence following the completion of investigations and related matters.”
“The spokesperson for the defense stated that accordingly, the suspects would be transferred to the Borno State Government for further proceedings, highlighting that the cases were handled by the Department of Prosecution and the Federal Ministry of Justice.
He also provided an update on suspected criminals apprehended by troops in various parts of the country. In the North-East region, Operation Hadin Kai troops eliminated at least 50 terrorists in Borno and Adamawa states respectively. The suspected insurgents, believed to be affiliated with Boko Haram/ISWAP, were neutralized in Gwoza, Gamboru Ngala, and Bama LGAs of Borno, as well as in Madagali LGA of Adamawa State. Additionally, various weapons and the sum of N340,500.00 were recovered from the deceased terrorists.”
“In total, Operation HADIN KAI troops successfully neutralized 52 terrorists, apprehended 137 individuals, and rescued 78 kidnapped hostages.
“The recovered weaponry included 3 M56 rifles, 40 AK47 rifles, three PKT guns, 13 homemade rifles, two hand grenades, one locally manufactured explosive device, along with various ammunition types such as 889 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 310 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 60 rounds of 7.62 x 25mm ammo, and 99 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo. Additionally, six AK47 rifle magazines, two M56 rifle magazines, two magazine carriers, one motorcycle, six mobile phones, one HH radio, three bicycles, and the sum of N340,500.00 were among the items recovered.
“The air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted multiple air interdictions on terrorist hideouts in North West Arina Woje and Tumbum Shitu on March 22 and 24, 2024. These locations were identified as hubs of terrorist activities and logistics. As a result, they were targeted with rockets and bombs, leading to the neutralization of several terrorists and destruction of their logistical supplies,” he explained.
