Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with allied forces, neutralized 34 terrorists in a fierce firefight during a failed ambush at Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack, which occurred on January 4, saw insurgents on motorcycles attempting to surprise troops in retaliation for the recent elimination of their commander and other combatants.
However, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) revealed in a statement on Wednesday that the troops, already on high alert, thwarted the ambush with a decisive response.
“The terrorists were taken by surprise when troops on a fighting patrol returning to base foiled their planned attack as soon as it commenced,” said Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.
Buba disclosed that reinforcement arrived swiftly, comprising elements of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces, which further overwhelmed the attackers.
During the operation, the reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), injuring a vigilante commander.
The air component of Operation Hadin Kai also played a critical role, launching air interdictions on the fleeing terrorists.
According to a battle damage assessment, several insurgents were killed, and a cache of weapons recovered.
The military confirmed that 34 terrorists were killed, and 23 AK-47 rifles, along with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, were recovered. Unfortunately, six personnel were killed in action.
Buba noted that the identities of the fallen personnel were being withheld to allow for the notification of their families.
“Overall, the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain profoundly conscious of their role and responsibility in ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation. Accordingly, troops remain committed to defeating the terrorists,” Buba stated.
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