Nigerian Army Loses Two Soldiers in Foiled Bandit Attack in Borno

The Nigerian military has announced that two soldiers of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) lost their lives early Tuesday during a successful operation that thwarted an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on their position in New Marte, Borno State.

In a statement issued by Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai, he confirmed that, regrettably, two soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice during the encounter.

He noted, however, that troops recovered a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) SUV abandoned by the terrorists during their retreat. Several motorcycles used by the terrorists were also destroyed by precision airstrikes.

“During exploitation of the area, troops discovered the lifeless bodies of terrorists, along with blood trails on their withdrawal routes, indicating additional casualties inflicted on the enemy,” the statement added.

In a related development, troops also repelled a bold attempt by terrorists to attack the Forward Operating Base at Kumshe.

The collaborative operation reflects the renewed spirit of jointness and teamwork in the ongoing fight against terrorism, aimed at restoring lasting peace and enabling socio-economic activities to flourish in the North East region.

Kovangiya further noted that the failed attack was repelled through a combined effort of ground forces and the Air Component of OPHK.

According to the statement, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate the troops’ location but were met with intense gunfire. The Air Component provided immediate Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) as well as offensive fire support, leading to the elimination of several fleeing terrorists.