In the latest reporting week, troops of Operation HADIN KAI recorded a sharp increase in the number of terrorist commanders, fighters and affiliates that surrendered to them; over 150 as against more than 50 in the preceding week.
The Joint Task Force North-East attributed the development to sustained military pressure, intelligence-led operations and coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic measures against terrorist groups in the North-East.
The rising number of surrenders is a sign of the increasing pressure on terrorist networks, especially on their freedom of movement, logistics and ability to sustain fighters and affiliates in their enclaves.
“The recovery of weapons and ammunition from some of those who surrendered had also provided an operational advantage, with the items potentially providing intelligence on terrorist capabilities, structures and support networks,” the task force said.
The development comes as security forces step up efforts to dismantle terrorist formations and persuade more fighters and affiliates to quit the groups.
Read Also: Nigerian Army Strengthens Security Partnership With Universities
Operation HADIN KAI has gradually fused battlefield pressure with strategic communication, civil-military engagement and other non-kinetic actions to undermine the networks that support terrorism.
Strategic communication remains critical in forging credible pathways for those individuals willing to disengage from terrorist organizations, while reinforcing the negative consequences of continued association with them.
“Theatre Command said “surrendering persons are profiled, documented and handled as per established procedures and applicable laws, providing a structured process through which their cases can be assessed and processed.”
The latest development also allows Operation HADIN KAI to build on the current momentum by encouraging further disengagement and disrupting the recruitment and sustainment mechanisms that allow terrorist groups to replenish their ranks.
The Military High Command praised the troops for their resilience, discipline and operational effectiveness, but urged “them to keep up the pressure and continue to deny terrorist elements freedom of action across the theatre.”
The increase in surrenders therefore complements ongoing military operations rather than replacing them. The combined approach aims to degrade terrorist capabilities, disrupt support structures, protect civilians and create conditions for the restoration of lasting peace and normal socio-economic activity across the Northeast.
