Niger launches armed offensive against Boko Haram

Nigerien Defense and Security Forces (FDS) have unilaterally launched a major operation against Boko Haram terrorist group within the territory of neighbouring Nigeria, local media in Niamey reported Wednesday.

According to different sources, a long line of FDS armoured vehicles on Monday passed through Diffa to "Doutsi" bridge along Komadougou Yobe river that separates Niger and Nigeria.

The objective is to neutralize resistance by Boko Haram sect and capture the Nigerian town of Damasak which is considered as a stronghold of the terror group.

The Nigerien soldiers are more determined to eliminate this terrorist sect, the same sources reported.

However, the government has not revealed any information regarding the said operation.

Boko Haram sect which launched attacks in 2009 in northern Nigeria and later in other neighbouring countries like Niger, Cameroon and Chad, has killed over 20,000 people and led to displacement of over 2 million others.

In Niger in particular, since February 2015, the terrorist sect has carried out numerous deadly attacks in the eastern regions neighbouring Nigeria like Bosso and Diffa, leaving hundreds of civilians and soldiers dead, and thousands others displaced. Enditem