Several terrorists were killed while some soldiers sustained injuries when troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on a military base in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Acting Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement on Monday
Goni said a large number of terrorists launched an assault on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gajiram at about 12:20 a.m. on Monday in an attempt to overrun the troops’ position.
He said the troops responded with “determined and effective fire”, forcing the terrorists to withdraw after suffering heavy casualties.
“During the engagement, troops neutralised several of the terrorists and recovered weapons, ammunition and communication gadgets,” Goni said.
He added that surveillance footage obtained after the engagement confirmed that several casualties were evacuated by the retreating terrorists.
According to him, the recovered weapons and other items, as well as the surveillance footage, were undergoing further operational assessment.
Goni, however, said some soldiers were injured after part of the base’s defences was temporarily breached during the attack.
Related News
When the media bleeds
Military names most wanted ISWAP leader, offers reward for his capture
UPDATED: Senior ISWAP member surrenders to troops in Borno
He said the breach also resulted in damage to some combat-enabling equipment and vehicles from rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) fire.
“Few troops sustained injuries during the engagement as a part of the defences was temporarily breached, leading to damage to some combat enablers and vehicles from Rocket Propelled Grenade fires,” he said.
The injured personnel, he said, were promptly evacuated by air and were stable while receiving medical attention.
Goni said troops had remained firmly deployed in and around the base and adjoining areas following the attack to dominate the area, monitor developments and prevent any further attempt by the terrorists to re-engage.
He urged residents of Gajiram and neighbouring communities to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities
“Members of the public are also encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agencies or call 07084988859 to support intelligence sharing in the ongoing operations,” he said.
Goni said the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai remained committed to sustaining pressure on ISWAP terrorists until lasting peace and stability were restored in the North East.
