The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd.) said that security forces have adopted a strategy of isolating terrorists from their sources of supplies and escape routes to secure the release of kidnapped victims without necessarily killing or arresting their captors.
Musa explained that troops first work to establish the whereabouts of terrorists holding captives before sealing off routes through which the criminals could escape.
He said the pressure created by such operations frequently forces the terrorists to abandon their victims and flee rather than engage the advancing security forces.
The minister disclosed this on Thursday while featuring on Channels Television’s Politics Today, against the backdrop of continued concerns over kidnapping and the circumstances surrounding the rescue of victims in some recent military operations.
According to him, terrorists generally avoid situations that expose them to the possibility of being killed, adding that the deployment of drones or other military manoeuvres could make them scatter and leave their hostages behind.
Musa said security agencies also target the logistical support sustaining terrorist camps by restricting access to food, water, fuel and other necessities.
He explained that cutting off such supplies could significantly weaken the criminals, while warning that individuals who secretly provide terrorists with food, water or fuel were contributing to their continued operations.
The minister said financial transactions involving ransom payments could also assist investigations, noting that collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) could help security agencies trace funds connected to criminal activities.
Musa also cautioned state governments against distributing powerful motorcycles as palliatives or constituency projects, saying some of the motorcycles could ultimately be diverted to terrorists and give them greater mobility during their operations.