Troops Neutralize Boko Haram Commander Tahir Baga in Sambisa Forest Sweep

By Milcah Tanimu

In a significant development in the fight against insurgency, the troops of Theatre Command, North East, under ‘Operation Hadin Kai,’ have accomplished a major victory by eliminating a top commander of the Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād, widely known as Boko Haram. The commander, identified as Tahir Baga, met his demise on May 13, 2024, during a robust offensive launched by the troops in the notorious Sambisa Forest.

This achievement came as a result of the troops’ relentless pursuit of terrorists within their strongholds in the forest, as part of Operation Desert Sanity III. Intelligence sources and security analyst Zagazola Makama in the Lake Chad region confirmed the successful operation.

Tahir Baga, a prominent figure within Boko Haram, was known to be a close ally of the group’s leader, Abubakar Shekau. He played a significant role in the formation of the terrorist movement in Maiduguri before relocating to Sambisa Forest. Described as a respected Imam within the sect, Baga wielded influence and was involved in thwarting surrender attempts by fighters and coercing young girls into suicide bombings.

During the offensive, the troops engaged with the terrorists, resulting in the neutralization of Tahir Baga and several of his associates, while others managed to escape with gunshot wounds. The elimination of such a high-ranking member of Boko Haram marks a significant blow to the terrorist group.

Additionally, the operation led to the liberation of 14 individuals, including four women and ten children, who were held captive by the terrorists. The fleeing insurgents abandoned their weapons and equipment, which were subsequently recovered by the troops. Among the items seized were bomb-making materials, firearms including an RPG-7 tube and an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, explosives, communication devices, bicycles, and various other supplies used by the terrorists to carry out their nefarious activities.

This successful operation underscores the commitment of the Nigerian military to combatting insurgency and restoring peace and security in the region. It also highlights the effectiveness of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in dismantling terrorist networks and neutralizing their leadership structures.