Nigerian forces reclaim Boko Haram stronghold

Nigerian government forces on Friday reclaimed a stronghold of the militant sect Boko Haram in northeast Borno state, with both land and air operations, military spokesman Chris Olukolade said.

Government troops recaptured Gwoza town after taking control of towns and villages leading to it, Xinhua news agency cited Olukolade as saying in a statement. Gwoza has been under Boko Haram control since last year.

"Several of the terrorists have died and many of them captured in the process. A lot of arms and ammunition have been recovered and the administrative headquarters (of the sect) completely destroyed," the spokesman said.

A massive cordon and search operation has commenced to locate any of the fleeing terrorists or hostages in their custody, he added.