Bwari attack: Your safety is guaranteed – DHQ assures FCT residents

…Says 2,016 terrorists surrender, 2 Chibok girls rescued

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Thursday assured Nigerians particularly residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of its commitment to tackle all security challenges confronting Abuja and its environs.

The military high command also urged residents not to panic but support the military and other security agencies to deal with the security threats.

 Director Defence Media Operations (DMO) Maj.-Gen. Benard Onyeuko who stated this in Abuja while updating journalists on military operations across the country, urged people to go about their normal business, saying   their safety is guaranteed.

“The hierarchy of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies wishes to re-assured Nigerians of its commitment and pact with all Nigerians. With the recent operations carried out 23 July, we wish to assure residents of FCT Abuja in particular that we are undaunted and unrelenting in our efforts to ensure the safety of lives and properties.

“People should go about their normal business as their safety is guaranteed. The support and cooperation of all Nigerians is hereby solicited as security is everybody’s business. Citizens are encouraged to report any unusual persons in your community to security agencies. If you see something, say something,” he said.

Speaking on the recent attack on Guards Brigade soldiers by terrorists in Bwari Area council where three soldiers lost their lives, Onyeuko said a massive operation to fish out the perpetrators with a view to ending insurgency activities in the affected areas is underway.

Speaking further, he said troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, rescued many civilians at Aulari in Borno state including two Chibok girls Hanatu Musa and Kauna Sarah Luka who are on serial number 7 and 38 of the missing Chibok girls.

According to him, a total of 2,016 suspected Boko Haram terrorists/Islamic State of West Africa Province terrorists and their families comprising of 360 males, 580 females and 1076 children surrendered to troops at various locations in the North East theatre of Operation during the period under review.

He said all rescued civilians and recovered items were handed over to relevant authority, while surrendered Boko Haram terrorists and their families were profiled and handed over to the appropriate agencies for further action.