Soldiers, 25 terrorists killed as troops repel ISWAP attack in Borno

The Nigerian Army says its troops killed more than 25 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists who launched a “coordinated multi-directional assault” in Kukawa, Borno state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Mohammed Goni, acting military information officer at the headquarters of the joint task force (north-east) Operation Hadin Kai, said some soldiers were also killed during the encounter.

“The terrorists, who attacked troops of 101 Special Forces Battalion in large numbers from four different flanks, met stiff resistance as the troops responded decisively with superior firepower, tactical manoeuvre and effective battlefield coordination,” the statement reads.

“Supported by the Air Component, the troops overwhelmed the terrorists, inflicted heavy casualties and forced the surviving elements to flee in disarray.

“Preliminary assessment indicates that over 25 terrorists were neutralised, with 14 bodies recovered so far.

“During exploitation of the area, troops recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including six AK-47 rifles.

“Further exploitation is ongoing to recover additional weapons, track the fleeing terrorists and prevent them from regrouping.

“Regrettably, some gallant soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.”

While sending condolences to the families of the slain soldiers, Goni said, “their courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty will remain an enduring testament to their service to the nation.”