The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed a deadly attack by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists on military personnel stationed at a stabilization operation site in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.
The assault, which occurred earlier this week, resulted in significant casualties and damage to military equipment.
In an official statement, Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed that the terrorists launched a well-coordinated attack that left five soldiers dead, ten others wounded, and four missing in action.
Despite these losses, the troops managed to neutralize several terrorists and seized a number of their weapons.
“The coordinated attack saw five soldiers killed in action, ten wounded, and four missing in action, while troops eliminated several terrorists and recovered weapons,” Major General Buba stated.
He further detailed that the assailants destroyed key equipment during the assault, including a gun truck, three tactical combat vehicles (TCVs), and an excavator, which were set ablaze by the terrorists.
Following the attack, the military deployed a reinforcement team, supported by air components, to pursue the attackers and exploit their withdrawal route. “A reinforcement team with an air component was dispatched to exploit the general area and track the terrorists’ withdrawal route,” the statement explained.
Despite the setback, the DHQ reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to eliminating terrorism and addressing other security challenges in the country.
“Such an attack shall not deter the troops and armed forces of Nigeria from achieving the ultimate goal of ending terrorism, insurgency, and insecurity in the country,” the statement affirmed.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also expressed his condolences to the military and the families of the fallen soldiers. In a statement issued by Usman Tar, the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, the governor acknowledged the gravity of the attack and its reminder of the cruelty of the Boko Haram insurgents.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and the families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots. May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families,” Governor Zulum said.
