Army dismisses claims of Boko Haram hoisting flag in Nigeria

The Nigerian army has denied report that Boko Haram terrorists hoisted flags in some villages in Borno state. Reports surfaced on Monday that some armed gunmen believed to be Boko Haram members attacked Kuburvwa village in Borno state.

It was alleged that the gunmen invaded the village around 6.30pm and started shooting sporadically, causing the locals to take refuge in the bushes around them.

Sources say the terrorist took over some villages and hoisted their flags as a mark of victory.

But a statement by Col Kukasheka Usman, who is the spokesperson of the army, said although there was a gun fight between troops and terrorists, there was no hoisting of flag.

Read the full statement below:
Yesterday, at about 5.00pm suspected elements of Boko Haram terrorists, scavenging for food, attacked Kwang village and Vigilantes from Dagu (which is about 4 kilometres from Kwang), responded and repelled the terrorists attack.

During the fire fight that ensued, one of the vigilantes sustained gun shot wound on his hand and was evacuated to General Hospital Uba while the terrorists fled with gun shot wounds.

Troops were eventually despatched to the area with clear orders to pursue and deal with the terrorists. They are still exploiting.

Similarly, same day, at about 4.35pm some suspected remnants of Boko Haram terrorists attacked Boftari which is about 15 kilometres from Chibok town.

On receipt of the information, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE stationed in Forward Operation Base Chibok, mobilized to the area.

The troops encountered Boko Haram terrorists ambush site shortly before Kuburmbula village. They quickly cleared the ambush and proceeded to Boftari.

Unfortunately, the terrorists had set some houses on fire and fled. The troops put out the fire and are currently on the hunt for the terrorists.

It is imperative to state that contrary to rumours flying around some media reports, no life was lost.

Additionally, there is no presence of the terrorists in any of the villages talk less of hoisting flags as alleged.

The troops have continued to maintain high level of vigilance.