By Victor Akaa.
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has marked the successful completion of Operation Lake Sanity 2 (OPLS 2) with a grand medal presentation ceremony.
Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba , Chief Military Information Officer Headquarters MNJTF M’djamena, Chad on Wednesday in a statement said the ceremony was to honour the bravery and sacrifices of MNJTF troops.
The event, held at the MNJTF headquarters in Farcha, N’Djamena, Chad, was attended by the Minister of Armed Forces, Veteran and War Victims of Chad, Issaka Maluoa Djamous, as the Special Guest of Honour.
In his address, the Minister commended the exceptional heroism and dedication demonstrated by the troops, stating that the success of OPLS 2 is a significant milestone in the fight for peace and stability in the region.
He acknowledged the collaboration between the MNJTF and National forces, underscored the significance of solidarity and teamwork in strengthening the foundations of lasting peace in the region, which has been plagued by instability for several years.
Earlier, the Force Commander MNJTF, Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali averred that the operation has achieved remarkable successes, including the repatriation of over 30,000 refugees and internally displaced persons, the neutralization of over 310 terrorists, and the dismantling of crucial terrorist logistical bases.
He added that the operation led to the arrest of over 160 logistics suppliers and informants, the surrender of more than 800 terrorists and their families, and the recovery of significant arms and ammunition, indicating a decline in support for terrorism.
The Force Commander, expressed profound gratitude for the continued support and strategic direction provided by the Lake Chad Basin Commission, particularly by the Head of Mission during the operation and his predecessors whose in previous efforts laid the groundwork for the feat achieved by OPLS 2.
The ceremony was a testament to the critical importance of collaboration between the MNJTF and national forces in restoring peace and stability across the sub-region.
The occasion was also marked by the decoration of the Force Commander, Deputy Force Commander, sector commanders, and troops for their outstanding contributions to OPLS 2.
According to the statement, the Chiefs of Defence Staff of Troop Contributing Countries were honoured with the prestigious OPLS 2 Medal for their extraordinary contributions to regional peace and stability. Both Force Commander, Deputy Force Commander, sector commanders and troops were decorated for their outstanding contributiona to OPLS 2.
Enugu Reporters noted that the success of Operation Lake Sanity 2 is a significant achievement in the fight against terrorism in the region, due to the repatriation of thousands of refugees and internally displaced persons, and the killing of hundreds of terrorists.
Highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of undisclosed amount of money to the families of soldiers wounded in action and those who paid their supreme prices, symbolising the profound gratitude and respect for their sacrifices.
