The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of 34 terrorists and six soldiers following an attack on a military base in Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, the identities of the fallen soldiers were withheld to allow for proper administrative procedures to notify their families.
Major General Buba revealed that the attack was an attempt by the terrorists to retaliate the recent killing of their commander and combatants by military forces. However, the plan was thwarted when troops on a fighting patrol returning to base intercepted the ambush and launched a counteroffensive.
Reinforcements, including personnel from the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilantes, and hybrid forces, played a crucial role in overpowering the attackers. Despite encountering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that injured a Vigilante Commander, the reinforcements arrived in time to neutralize the fleeing terrorists.
The air component of Operation HADIN KAI also carried out airstrikes on the retreating insurgents. A Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) confirmed significant losses among the terrorists and the recovery of weapons and ammunition.
Casualties and Recoveries
- Terrorists Killed: 34
- Weapons Recovered: 23 AK-47 rifles
- Ammunition Recovered: Over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- Troop Losses: 6 personnel killed in action
Major General Buba emphasized that the names of the fallen soldiers would be released only after their next of kin have been informed, urging the media to respect this process.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to defeating insurgency and terrorism in Nigeria, assuring the public that troops remain resolute in their mission to restore peace and security.