In a major offensive, Nigerian troops have successfully eliminated Tahir Baga, a top commander of the notorious terrorist group, Boko Haram. This significant achievement occurred on May 13, 2024, during Operation Desert Sanity III, a comprehensive military operation aimed at dismantling terrorist enclaves in the Sambisa Forest.
Tahir Baga, a close ally of the late Abubakar Shekau, was a founding member of the Boko Haram movement in Maiduguri and played a key role in the group’s operations. He was revered as an Imam and had a significant influence on the sect’s followers. His demise is a major blow to the terrorist organization, as he was instrumental in persuading many young girls to carry out suicide bombings and had thwarted numerous efforts by fighters and their families to surrender.
The successful operation, conducted by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, resulted in the neutralization of Tahir Baga and several of his lieutenants, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. The troops also cleared five terrorist enclaves in the Sambisa Forest, including Shababul Umma, Garin Panel Beater, and Lagara Anguwan Gwaigwai.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism in the region and demonstrates the Nigerian military’s unwavering commitment to ensuring peace and security in the country.