The Nigerian army has begun an offensive against the Islamic terrorist group Boko Haram.

The troops have started by raiding a game reserve in Borno state where Boko Haram has established training bases and storage depots. The assault was the first major attack since President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in the region because of the terrorist threat.

Dusk-to-dawn curfews are now in effect in the emergency states.

A BBC reporter on the ground said that major problem for the military will be trying to drive Boko Haram out of urban areas because the terrorists have integrated themselves into the civilian population.

Cell phone service throughout the region has been disrupted although the government will not comment as to whether its part of their offensive.