Nigerian troops have killed 76 militants linked to Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno state during recent operations, a military spokesperson announced Thursday.
The militants, part of an ongoing insurgency in northeastern Nigeria since 2009, have been responsible for widespread violence, including the displacement of millions and the deaths of thousands. Borno state remains the epicenter of the conflict.
The insurgents escalated attacks in Borno at the start of the year, including a deadly assault on the Dumba community last Sunday, where at least 40 farmers were killed.
Major-General Edward Buba, the military spokesperson, confirmed that 24 fighters were killed during offensive operations conducted in the Damboa, Bama, and Chibok areas between Jan. 7 and 13. He did not disclose any casualties among Nigerian troops during the operations.
Troops also apprehended 72 suspects and rescued eight hostages, Buba said in a statement. Recovered weapons and ammunition included AK-47 rifles, grenades, rocket-propelled grenades, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The Nigerian army continues efforts to combat the insurgency, which has plagued the region for over a decade.
