At least 21 Boko Haram terrorists were killed on Friday after the insurgents attacked Geidam, a border town in Yobe State, according to an army spokesman.
The terrorists, in their assault, destroyed three communications masts and looted some shops in the town.
However, troops stationed at the town, supported by the Air Component of Operation Lafia Dole, mounted a hot pursuit and closed up with the terrorists, killing 21 of them in the process, Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General Mohammed Yerima, said in a signed statement on Saturday.
“The gallant troops successfully recovered a gun truck with an anti aircraft gun mounted on it, eight AK 47 rifles with ten magazines as well as two Rocket Propelled Grenade Bombs and five chargers,” the statement added.
“Other items recovered are: over a thousand rounds of different calibres of ammunition, one Commando Mortar Tube, 3 IED blasting devices, tool boxes, communication radios and cell phones among several other items of value.
“The troops are still combing the area for possible discoveries as most of the terrorists escaped with various degrees of injuries from the resultant encounter. The only setbacks on the side of the troops were the injuries sustained by 3 soldiers who were in stable conditions and receiving medical attention in a military facility.
“The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru congratulated the Theatre Commander and troops of OPLD including the Air Component for this great achievement.
“The COAS restated the commitment of the Nigerian Army under his leadership to ending terrorism and all violent crimes in the North East and other parts of the country.
“He further enjoined the troops to sustain the ongoing offensive under Operation Tura Takaibango until this noble goal is attained.”
