BOKO HARAM: 263 members and Their Families Surrender at Nigeria-Cameroon Border

In a significant development in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) reported the surrender of 263 Boko Haram terrorists and their families at the Nigeria-Cameroon border. This series of surrenders took place between July 10 and July 17, 2024, as part of the ongoing Operation Lake Sanity 2. This operation has been instrumental in weakening the stronghold of the terrorist group in the region.

Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Chief Military Public Information Officer at the MNJTF headquarters in N’djamena, Chad, provided a detailed account of the events leading up to this significant surrender. The wave of surrenders began on July 11, 2024, and continued in the following days, marking a crucial turning point in the MNJTF's efforts to bring peace and stability to the region.

The first group of five terrorists surrendered to MNJTF troops in Wulgo, a border town between Nigeria and Cameroon. Preliminary information revealed that these individuals were from Tumbuma and Kutumgulla in Marte Local Government Area, Nigeria. On the same day, Malum Kori Bukar, a 50-year-old terrorist, escaped from the Jibilaram hideout and surrendered. Additionally, 19 terrorists surrendered in Madaya, Extreme North Cameroon, and another 11 surrendered in Wulgo from the Tumbuma hideout.

 The second day saw a more significant number of surrenders, with 64 individuals surrendering in Bonderi, Cameroon. This group included 6 adult males, 20 women, and 38 children. The surrender of women and children indicates the weakening resolve and disintegration of Boko Haram's family units.

27 terrorists surrendered, marking another step forward in the MNJTF's campaign. The continuous surrender of terrorists highlights the increasing pressure on Boko Haram fighters and their diminishing will to continue their insurgency.

 This day marked the largest single-day surrender, with a total of 102 individuals laying down their arms in Bonderi, Extreme North Cameroon. This group consisted of 20 adult men, 40 women, and 42 children. Additionally, 5 individuals surrendered in Wulgo, with 2 of them coming from the Tumbuma hideout, located in southern Lake Chad. The sheer number of surrenders on this day underscores the effectiveness of the MNJTF's operations and the growing disillusionment among Boko Haram members.

 The trend of surrenders continued with 2 more terrorists surrendering. While the number was smaller compared to previous days, it still signifies the ongoing impact of Operation Lake Sanity 2.

The final day of this wave of surrenders saw a total of 48 terrorists and their families giving up their fight. This group included 10 adult males, 15 females, and 23 children. The inclusion of families in these surrenders is a clear indication of the crumbling support within Boko Haram and the desire for a peaceful resolution among its members.

All the surrendered individuals are Nigerians. Consequently, they have been handed over to the troops of Operation HADIN KAI for further action. This operation, which has been at the forefront of combating Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria, will now take over the process of rehabilitation and reintegration of these former terrorists and their families.

The MNJTF, comprising troops from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, has been instrumental in coordinating regional efforts against Boko Haram. The success of Operation Lake Sanity 2 demonstrates the effectiveness of multinational cooperation in addressing common security threats. The operation has not only led to the surrender of terrorists but has also disrupted Boko Haram's supply lines, dismantled their hideouts, and rescued abducted civilians.

Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi expressed optimism about the recent developments. In his statement, he emphasized the importance of the continuous pressure on Boko Haram and the need for sustained efforts to maintain the momentum gained from these surrenders. He also highlighted the role of intelligence gathering, community engagement, and collaboration with local authorities in achieving these successes.

"The surrender of these terrorists is a testament to the relentless efforts of the MNJTF and our commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. We will continue to pursue all available avenues to ensure the total defeat of Boko Haram and the restoration of normalcy in affected communities," said Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi.

Local leaders and community members have also welcomed the news of the surrenders. Many see this as a positive step towards ending the violence that has plagued their regions for years. Community leaders have called for increased support for the reintegration programs to ensure that the surrendered individuals can reintegrate into society and contribute positively to their communities.

The surrender of 263 Boko Haram terrorists and their families marks a significant victory in the fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad region. This development highlights the effectiveness of multinational operations and the importance of sustained efforts to combat insurgency. With continued support and collaboration, the MNJTF and Operation HADIN KAI can build on this success to achieve lasting peace and security in the region.