The Nigerian Army has confirmed that four security operatives were killed on Friday night when Boko Haram terrorists ambushed troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, said in a statement on Saturday that the attack occurred as the troops were returning from a successful patrol around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, near the fringes of the Sambisa Forest.
“Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko, came under sudden and heavy insurgents’ fire,” the statement said.
The patrol team, led by the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General M. Uba, comprised soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). Anele said the troops fought through the ambush with “superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat.
Two soldiers and two CJTF operatives were killed in the firefight.
Anele commended their bravery and conveyed the Army’s condolences to the families of the fallen personnel, describing their sacrifice as valiant and deeply appreciated.
She also refuted reports circulating online that the Brigade Commander had been abducted during the encounter, warning the public to disregard such misinformation.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, was quoted as praising the troops’ courage and resilience in one of the country’s most dangerous conflict zones.
Friday’s attack comes barely a month after Boko Haram terrorists killed Lt. Col. Aliyu Paiko, Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, along with several soldiers, in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
Leave a Reply