Boko Haram insurgents launched a devastating attack on a military base in Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, killing dozens of soldiers and vigilantes. The assault occurred on Saturday around 4 p.m. and was confirmed by security and local sources on Monday.
Heavily armed insurgents stormed the base in large numbers, overwhelming the troops despite their strong resistance. A security source described the attack as one of the deadliest the base has endured, noting that it has faced over 100 assaults in the past. The insurgents killed many personnel, seized military weapons, and destroyed operational vehicles and buildings by setting them ablaze.
Before the attack, the insurgents reportedly used a surveillance drone to survey the base. Troops initially mistook the drone for part of their own military operations. The attackers are believed to have launched the assault from Mandara Gau in Biu Local Government Area, located about 25 kilometers from the base.
More than 12 bodies have been recovered so far, though the exact death toll remains unknown. The insurgents have reportedly taken over a mango plantation owned by a former Borno State commissioner, using it as a hideout.
Another security official highlighted Boko Haram’s increasing use of drones in recent weeks, particularly in areas between Chibok and Damboa. A similar attack occurred a day before Christmas when insurgents injured six soldiers after conducting aerial surveillance.
As of the time of filing this report, the military has not issued an official statement regarding the attack. This assault underscores the ongoing threat posed by Boko Haram in northeast Nigeria, despite ongoing efforts to combat the group.
