*RRS, Boko Haram gun duel paralyses activities on Maiduguri-Damaturu highway*
There was palpable tension on Maiduguri-Damaturu highway, on Friday, when motorists and commuters scampered for cover following a prolonged shootout between operatives of the Borno State Rapid Respond Squad and suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
A security source disclosed that the insurgents had allegedly taken a drive through the desert part with the intention of blocking the highway to kidnap unsuspecting travellers.
The source further said that the marauders were, however, spotted by the vigilant RRS team deployed on the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway who engaged them in a shootout
The gun duel, which started at about 3pm lasted for about one hour 30 minutes.
The PUNCH reported that the police operatives led by Commander RRS Borno State, Abioye Babalola, succeeded in destabilising the insurgents with the aid of several tear gas canisters.
When the insurgents could not withstand the teargas, they retreated.
Although no casualty was reported on both sides, two armoured vehicles belonging to the RRS were said to be destroyed in the attack.
“Boko Haram Terrorist attacks at Garin Kuturu along Maiduguri Damaturu road today at about 1630hrs was thwarted by RRS.
“The use of tear gas gave the police upper hand, while Boko Haram launched attacks on CTU and RRS Vehicle, the road was blocked for the commuters, after neutralising the road and ensuring safety of the civilians, they were escorted to Auno.
“Efforts to kidnap was thwarted, the road is safe, no any form of abduction,” he said.
The security source also revealed that two vehicles, a Sharon and Toyota Camry with registration number PKM 512 XA and KANO TRN 77 SY were recovered from the insurgents.
When contacted, RRS Commandant, Abioye Babalola confirmed the incident but declined to give further details.
He said normalcy has returned to the highway and commuters were able to travel on the road again.
