Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, neutralising more than 25 fighters and recovering arms and ammunition.
The terrorists reportedly launched a multi-directional assault on troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion from four different flanks but met stiff resistance from the soldiers.
The troops responded with superior firepower, tactical manoeuvres and effective battlefield coordination, with support from the Air Component of the operation.
According to a statement by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Mohammed Goni, the counter-offensive inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists and forced the surviving fighters to flee.
“Preliminary assessment indicates that over 25 terrorists were neutralised, with 14 bodies recovered so far,” the statement said.
During an exploitation of the area following the attack, the troops recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including six AK-47 rifles.
The statement added that further exploitation of the area was ongoing to recover additional weapons, track fleeing terrorists and prevent them from regrouping.
However, the Nigerian Army said some soldiers were killed during the encounter.
The Army expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, commending their courage and sacrifice in the service of the nation.
“Their courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty will remain an enduring testament to their service to the nation. May their souls rest in peace,” the statement said.
The Army said the successful repulsion of the attack demonstrated the combat readiness and resilience of troops operating in the North-East Theatre.
It added that the operation also underscored the effectiveness of air-ground coordination and joint operations in disrupting terrorist activities and restricting their freedom of action.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining operational pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements in the region.
According to the statement, troops would continue to conduct aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and coordinated offensive actions with other security agencies to dismantle terrorist networks, protect communities and safeguard the country.
