The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that 34 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were eliminated in a fierce battle at Sabon Gari Community, Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State. The encounter, however, claimed the lives of six soldiers.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this in a statement titled “Terrorists Killed in Attack on Sabon Gari in Damboa LGA of Borno State.”
The statement detailed that on January 4, 2025, terrorists riding on motorcycles and gun trucks launched an attack on troops stationed in Sabon Gari Village, aiming to avenge the recent killing of their commanders. However, joint air and ground forces thwarted their plans, resulting in heavy losses for the insurgents.
“The terrorists attempted to surprise the troops and retaliate for the recent killing of their commanders, but the troops’ fighting patrol returning to base foiled the attack as it began,” the statement read.
A reinforcement team comprising the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilantes, and hybrid forces arrived to overpower the fleeing terrorists, despite encountering an improvised explosive device that injured the vigilante commander. The air component of Operation Hadin Kai also conducted airstrikes on the fleeing insurgents.
Battle damage assessments revealed that 34 terrorists were neutralized, and 23 AK-47 rifles along with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered.
While highlighting the military’s success, the statement also acknowledged the toll on personnel: “Sadly, six soldiers were killed in action. Their identities are withheld until their next of kin are notified.”
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to defeating insurgency and terrorism, assuring Nigerians of the military’s dedication to restoring peace and security in the country.
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