Troops Kill Shekau’s Close Associate, Tahir Baga, Clear Terrorist Enclaves in Sambisa Forest

In a significant victory against terrorism, the Theatre Command, North East, under ‘Operation Hadin Kai,’ has announced the elimination of a key commander of Boko Haram, Tahir Baga. This achievement came as part of the ongoing offensive to dismantle terrorist strongholds in the Sambisa forest region.

The operation, dubbed Operation Desert Sanity III, saw the successful clearance of several terrorist enclaves, including Shababul Umma, Garin Panel Beater, and Lagara Anguwan Gwaigwai. Tahir Baga, a trusted ally of the notorious Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, was among those neutralized during the operation on May 13, 2024.

Intelligence sources, along with Zagazola Makama, a renowned counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, have confirmed the operation’s success. Tahir Baga’s elimination dealt a significant blow to Boko Haram, as he played a pivotal role in the group’s activities, including thwarting surrender attempts and coercing individuals into carrying out suicide bombings.

Furthermore, the offensive led to the liberation of 14 individuals, including women and children, who were held captive by the terrorists. The swift and decisive action by the troops forced the terrorists to flee, leaving behind weapons and equipment.