Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces thwarted an ambush by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram terrorists in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, after a fierce gun battle on Saturday.
The terrorists, riding motorcycles and gun trucks, launched the attack in retaliation for the recent killing of their commander and several combatants by Nigerian troops. However, the assailants were caught off guard when a patrol team returning to base foiled their plan as the attack began.
A statement released on Wednesday by Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, detailed the events, highlighting the prompt response by a reinforcement team comprising members of the Civilian Joint Taskforce (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces.
The statement noted that despite encountering an improvised explosive device (IED) that injured the Vigilante Commander, the reinforcements successfully decimated the fleeing terrorists. The statement also noted the critical role played by the air component of Operation HADIN KAI, which conducted airstrikes on the retreating insurgents.
“The Battle Damage Assessment revealed that 34 terrorists were killed during the operation. Troops recovered 23 AK-47 rifles, over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and other weapons.
“Regrettably, six personnel lost their lives in the encounter. Their identities are being withheld until the families are formally notified. The Defence Headquarters urged the media to respect this process.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains deeply committed to its role in ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation. Troops are unwavering in their resolve to defeat the terrorists and restore peace to affected regions,” the statement reads.
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