The troops of 8 Task Force Division of Nigerian Army have commenced an Operation codenamed HARDKNOCK aimed to clear pockets Boko Haram terrorists hiding in remote areas of northern Borno State, along Nigeria-Niger borders.

“As the operation progresses, troops have cleared pockets of insurgents from their hideouts in Momo and Tunshe villages around Marte general area Borno State,” Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, said.

He disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening that “the troops have rescued 19 women and 19 children held hostages in Dumba village by the terrorists.” He said that “during the rescue operation, the troops neutralised 6 Boko Haram insurgents while others fled with gunshot wounds, leaving behind 22 motorcycles, flags and other items.”

•Nigerian Army Photo shows women and children rescued today from Boko Haram hideouts in the Marte general area Borno State.