Nigerian troops have repelled a major attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a military base in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, with more than 25 attackers reportedly neutralised during the fierce encounter.
The attack was carried out against troops of the Nigerian Army’s 101 Special Forces Battalion between about 9pm and 11:30pm on Tuesday, according to security sources who spoke to Vanguard.
Terrorists attacked from four directions
The attackers reportedly launched a coordinated assault on the military position from four different directions in an attempt to overrun the base.
Troops, supported by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, engaged the terrorists in a prolonged exchange of fire before successfully forcing them to retreat.
Security sources said the terrorists suffered heavy casualties, with more than 25 fighters reportedly neutralised.
So far, troops have recovered 14 bodies from the battlefield, while a cache of weapons and ammunition was also recovered from the fleeing attackers, including six AK-47 rifles.
Military also suffers casualties
The intense fighting was not without losses on the side of the security forces.
According to the report, some soldiers were killed while others sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Following the attack, the Brigade Commander visited the area to coordinate efforts to strengthen the defensive position, replenish personnel and equipment, and oversee further exploitation of the battlefield.
Military confirms attack
The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, confirmed that terrorists attacked the military base.
He said the attackers were defeated and suffered heavy casualties.
The latest confrontation highlights the continuing security challenges in the Lake Chad region, where ISWAP and other insurgent groups continue to target military positions and communities.
The military is expected to continue its assessment of the battlefield as operations to track fleeing terrorists and secure the area continue.
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