NIGERIAN Navy Marines at Naval Base, Lake Chad area in conjunction with the Army 403 Amphibious Brigade, under Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralised 34 terrorists in the area.

The Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, a captain, in an operational report on Saturday, October 30, explained that revised battle damage assessment provided that 28 terrorists were killed in action.

“On October 28, the Navy marines conducted offensive operations against terrorist elements, with initial reports indicating that eight terrorists were killed in action.

“A subsequent battle damage assessment revised the casualty figure to 28 terrorists killed in action,” he said.

Folorunsho also said that the marines, in a separate operation on Friday conducted an offensive strike against identified Boko Haram terrorist enclave at Dumba.

“The operation followed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions that facilitated the identification and monitoring of terrorist elements before a precision strike was executed.

“Preliminary battle damage assessment indicates that approximately six terrorists were neutralised, while several others reportedly sustained injuries.

“The casualty figures remain subject to further verification as operational assessments continue,” he said.

According to him, the recently established Navy marines have served as a force multiplier under Operation HADIN KAI since their deployment, strengthening the conduct of offensive operations against terrorist elements.

He also said that their operational contributions have enhanced the capacity to target terrorist enclaves, disrupt hostile activities and deny Boko Haram terrorists the freedom of action within the Lake Chad area.

“These efforts continue to support the degradation of terrorist capabilities and advance ongoing operations to restore peace and stability in the North-East.

“The Navy remains committed to supporting joint operations through sustained offensive action and intelligence-driven engagements to strengthen national security and protect vulnerable communities,” he added. (NAN)