The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of 17 soldiers following a deadly terrorist ambush on a military base in Bangi, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
This confirmation follows earlier reports that surfaced online, indicating that the surprise attack claimed the lives of at least 20 troops and left several others injured.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, disclosed that the assault was carried out by an estimated 300 heavily armed terrorists believed to be operating from the Kwanar Dutse Forest.
“Based on credible intelligence, troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce three-hour gun battle, successfully disrupting their movement toward Kwatankoro Forest, where they were believed to be planning coordinated attacks or seeking refuge from ongoing operations in Zamfara State,” the statement read.
The Army further disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ escape routes, inflicting heavy casualties.
While the exact number of enemy fighters killed remains unclear, Anele noted that “multiple blood trails along their escape routes presumably indicate significant enemy losses.”
“Regrettably, seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter while ten others sustained varying degrees of injury.
The wounded have been evacuated to a military medical facility and are currently in stable condition,” the Army spokesperson added.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended condolences to the families of the fallen heroes, lauding their sacrifice in the defense of the nation.
He also directed that the best possible medical care be provided to the injured soldiers.
