The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that six soldiers were killed during a raid by the Islamic State/Boko Haram group on a military base in Borno State.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday, January 4, 2025, also saw the insurgents set fire to the base and army vehicles.
The fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched a pre-dawn attack on the base in Sabon Gari, Damboa district, using trucks and motorcycles. The military, however, was quick to respond, and a fierce gun battle ensued.
In a statement, the Defence Headquarters revealed that although 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons were recovered, six military personnel lost their lives in the attack. The military also recovered over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
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.
“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.”
