The Borno state government says six repentant Boko Haram insurgents have escaped.
In a statement on Thursday, Usman Tar, the state’s
commissioner for information and internal security, said the escapees, who
surrendered through the state’s reconciliation programme, fled without weapons.
“Only six insurgents escaped, contrary to claims from
certain media outlets quoting 13,” he said.
He noted that the escapees were among more than 20,000
militants recently processed and categorised as low risk.
“These individuals
had been thoroughly documented, profiled, and evaluated for their mental
condition, susceptibility to extremism, and risk of relapse,” the statement
reads.
“The insurgents fled without any weapons and are currently
being pursued. Initial findings indicate that reports suggesting they absconded
with government arms are untrue.
“Historically, terrorists have sourced arms from covert
channels and often display these in propaganda videos, but this should not be
interpreted as government-issued weapons.”
He said the number of escapees is minuscule when juxtaposed
with the number of those who have been successfully reintegrated.
Tar urged the public to avoid sensationalising the matter,
adding that doing so would empower terrorists and hinder ongoing
counter-insurgency measures.
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to
restoring peace and security across Borno state,” he added.
“Residents can rest assured that all necessary steps are
being taken to maintain peace.”
He further encouraged residents to stay on the alert and
avoid falling for terrorist propaganda, which “could lower the morale of both
the security forces and the citizens”.
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