By Gloria Ikibah
A notorious insurgent leader, Malam Jidda, has been taken out in a joint ground and air operation led by troops under Operation Hadin Kai in Yobe State.
The offensive, carried out in the Ngazalgana area of Gujba Local Government, saw troops backed by air support engage with militants believed to be from the Boko Haram/ISWAP factions. Jidda, said to be in charge of Ngorgore and Malumti villages, was among those killed in the firefight. 
According to Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Theatre Command, the operation took place on June 9 and dealt a heavy blow to the terror group’s presence in the region. Several others reportedly escaped with injuries.
“Relatedly, continued exploitation of Mallamfatori general area, in Abadam Local Government, where troops recently neutralised several terrorists, have led to the discovery of other neutralized bodies of terrorists, and recovery of assorted arms and equipment.
“Items recovered during the coordinated offensives include; AK-47 Rifles, terrorists’ Motorcycles, large quantity of ammunition, Ak – 47 rifle magazines, Rocket Propelled Gun tubes, Hand Grenades, hand held radios and other sundry items.
“These renewed offensives, underscore the effectiveness of the ongoing counter-insurgency efforts by Operation HADIN KAI backed by an efficient Air Component, while remaining committed to its operational objectives, to ensure the complete defeat of Boko Haram/ISWAP and the restoration of peace and security in the North-East region,” the statement added.
