Nigerian army denies killing of 150 persons by Boko Haram in northeast

Nigerian Army on Wednesday said that media reports alleging the killing and drowning of 150 people in northeast town of Kukuwa-Gari of Yobe state, cannot be substantiated.

Media reports in some quarters had alleged that more than 150 civilians had been massacred and drowned by the Boko Haram insurgents.

Spokesperson for the Army Col. Sani Usman assured the general public of the Nigerian Army's commitment in the fight against Boko Haram terrorists and ensuring security for law-abiding citizens in the affected areas.

He added that troops have arrested two fleeing key members of the terrorist group with two pick-up vehicles in Geidam, Yobe.

According to him, those arrested were currently being interrogated by the authorities.

Usman said there were reports and distressed calls about suspected movements and planned attacks by the Boko Haram terrorists around Damasak general area.

He said the Nigerian Air Force had conducted air surveillance and armed reconnaissance in the area, while the Nigerian Army troops had also been reinforced.