1,250 Boko Haram suspects cleared, released by Nigerian army

The Nigerian army has announced the release of 1,250 Boko Haram suspects who were cleared for having no links with the terrorist group Boko Haram.

Brigadier-General Victor Ezugwu, General Officer Commanding, GOC, 7 Division of the army disclosed this on Monday in Maiduguri during a visit by the Red Cross representative Beat Mosimann, local media report.

It is not clear if the two local government officials arrested last week for having links with Boko Haram were among those released.

The Chairman of Mafa Local Government Area in Borno, Shettima Lawan and the Vice Chairman of the Kaga Local Government Area were arrested by the army for accommodating Boko Haram members.

The army has warned the general public of new trends adopted by Boko Haram suicide bombers who knock at doors.

“Recently, two female suicide bombers knocked at the door of one Bulama and Usman about 200 meters apart in Kalari general area of Maiduguri. The daughter of Bulama opened the door, while Usman himself opened his own door and immediately the suicide bombers detonated their suicide vest, in the process killing the unsuspected little girl, Usman including the two female suicide bombers,” a statement by the army explained.

It advised the public to report suspicious movement of persons as well as respect the 10pm curfew.