The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that troops engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Borno State killed 34 terrorists and recovered 23 AK-47 rifles, along with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed that six soldiers lost their lives in a firefight when terrorists on motorcycles and gun trucks attacked troops stationed in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area, on January 4, 2025. The attack was a retaliatory move following the killing of the terrorists’ commander and fighters by Nigerian troops.
The terrorists were ambushed as they attempted to surprise the troops. A reinforcement team, including elements of the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilantes, and hybrid forces, arrived at the scene in time to overpower the attackers. However, the reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), which injured the Vigilante Commander.
Despite this, the reinforcement forces and air support from Operation Hadin Kai successfully neutralized the fleeing terrorists. The battle damage assessment confirmed the deaths of several terrorists and the recovery of weapons.
The DHQ also requested the media to respect the confidentiality of the names of the fallen soldiers, as the process to notify their next of kin is still ongoing.
The Nigerian Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to ending insurgency and terrorism in the nation.