Troops intensify patrols to secure farmers, clear key routes in Gwoza axis
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified farming security patrols and shoulder clearance operations across parts of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State to protect farmers and deny terrorists freedom of movement.
Military sources told Zagazola Makama that the coordinated operations were conducted on July 24 by formations under Sector 1 as part of ongoing efforts to enhance security during the current farming season.
At about 9:35 a.m., troops of 192 Battalion (Mechanised) carried out intensified farming security patrols along the Gwoza–Limankara and Yamteke road corridors to provide security cover for farmers working on their farmlands and reduce their vulnerability to terrorist attacks.
Similarly, at about 10:00 a.m., troops of the 82 Division Task Force Battalion, working in conjunction with volunteer security forces, conducted farming security patrols in the area. The operation was aimed at safeguarding farming communities while denying terrorists freedom of action.
In a related development, combined troops of 114 Battalion (Mechanised) and 199 Special Forces Battalion commenced a shoulder clearance operation along the Bitta–Gwoza main supply route at about 8:00 a.m.
The exercise involved clearing vegetation and other potential concealment points along the roadside to improve visibility, enhance the movement of troops and civilians, and reduce the risk of ambushes and improvised explosive device (IED) attacks. The operation was successfully concluded at about 12:00 noon the same day.
Military sources said the operations form part of sustained efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to secure agricultural activities, protect critical road networks and create a safe environment for residents to cultivate their farms without fear of terrorist attacks.
They added that although the overall security situation across the North-East theatre remains calm, troops remain on high alert and continue to sustain offensive and protective operations against terrorist elements.
