The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed a surprise attack by suspected Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on troops deployed in stabilisation operations in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria.
The attack, which occurred over the weekend, led to the deaths of five soldiers, with ten others wounded and four reported missing. In a statement on Tuesday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed that troops eliminated several terrorists and recovered weapons during the confrontation.
“The coordinated attack saw five soldiers killed in action, ten wounded, and four missing in action, while troops eliminated several terrorists as well as recovered weapons,”Major General Buba said.
The DHQ added that the enemy forces burnt equipment, including one gun truck, three tactical combat vehicles, and an excavator. A reinforcement team, supported by air components, was dispatched to pursue the terrorists and exploit their withdrawal route.
“Such an attack shall not deter the troops and armed forces of Nigeria from seeing the end of terrorism, insurgency, and other insecurity challenges facing the country,” the statement read.
As the military high command mourns the loss of the soldiers, it reiterated its commitment to ending terrorism and insecurity across the nation.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also expressed his condolences to the military. In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, Governor Zulum condemned the attack and called it a stark reminder of the brutality of Boko Haram terrorists.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots. May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families,” the governor stated.
