Nigeria: Security forces capture several Boko Haram militants December 27-31

Event

The Nigerian Army and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJT) troops have captured and neutralized several Boko Haram militants and rescued 165 people from captivity in Borno State between Friday, December 27, and Wednesday, December 31. In the first operation, the Nigerian Army neutralized one terrorist, captured another, and rescued eight at Tafana in the Bama area on Monday, December 27. A high profile Boko Haram informant and two men were captured in Shuwari, Damboa District, while several militants were arrested in Monguno. In another operation, officials added that its troops arrested 75 suspected Boko Haram militants and rescued 147 civilians kept captive in Northern Borno.

Similar operations remain possible over the near term.

Context

Although regional counterinsurgency efforts, begun in 2015 and led by West African states Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger have diminished Boko Haram's effective territorial control, northeastern Nigeria remains Boko Haram's stronghold, concentrating the majority of its activities.

Advice

Individuals in Nigeria are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.