‘Six soldiers, 34 terrorists killed,’ DHQ speaks on ISWAP’s attack on Borno military base
Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun
By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja
The Nigerian Military has confirmed that terrorist group, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) killed six soldiers in a raid on its military base in Damboa, Borno State on Sunday.
However, the Defence Headquarters, in statement on Wednesday, said 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons were recovered during the battle with the insurgents. The statement indicated that the attack on the base was a revenge by the terrorists against the troops over killing of their commander.
The statement said “On 4 January 2025, an unspecified number of ISWAP/BHT terrorists riding on motorcycles and Gun trucks engaged troops deployed in SABON GARI Village of DAMBOA Local Government Area of Borno State in a firefight. The terrorists had attempted to surprise troops and retaliate against the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops.
“The terrorists were taken unaware when troops fighting patrol returning to base foiled their planned attack as soon as the attack commenced. Additionally, the troop’s reinforcement team comprised of elements of the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilantes as well as hybrid forces timely arrived at the scene to overpower the terrorists.
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“Furthermore, though troops reinforcement team encountered an Improvise Explosive Device injuring the Vigilante Commander. The reinforcement team arrived in time to decimate the fleeing terrorist.
“Furthermore, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorist. Battle Damage Assessment revealed several killed terrorists and recovered weapons.
“On the whole, 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons were recovered. Troops also recovered with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Sadly, 6 personnel were killed in action.
“Kindly note that the names of killed in-action personnel are withheld to allow administrative procedures of notifying their next of kin to be concluded. Accordingly, the media is requested to respect the process, please.”
DHQ added that the Armed is “profoundly conscious” of its role and responsibility in ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation and that the troops remain committed to the course of defeating the terrorists.
