Five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) have been killed following a terrorist attack on a military base in Mandaragirau, Borno State.
Haruna Sani, Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation Hadin Kai, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the attack occurred around 3 a.m. on Friday during a heavy rainfall.
According to Sani, the insurgents attempted to infiltrate parts of the military facility under the cover of darkness and reduced visibility caused by the downpour.
However, troops mounted a strong counter-offensive that repelled the attackers and inflicted casualties on them.
“Determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers,” the statement read.
“The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau and reflects the courage and determination of our troops across the Theatre.
“Regrettably, in the course of the battle, five gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the intense firefight and close-quarter engagement while some equipment were also affected by the firefight.
“Their sacrifice embodies the highest traditions of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation.
“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.”
Sani said personnel injured during the encounter were swiftly evacuated by the Air Component Command and are currently receiving treatment in stable condition.
He added that troops remain in full control of the military base and continue to dominate the surrounding areas, while follow-up operations are ongoing.
According to him, the failed attack reflects the increasing desperation of terrorist groups facing sustained military pressure in the North-East.
“These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure,” Sani said.
“All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North East Theatre.”