The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of six soldiers during an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants on a military base in Sabon Gari, located in the Damboa district of Borno State.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, involved insurgents arriving in trucks and motorcycles and setting fire to the base and army vehicles during the raid.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the DHQ said that 34 ISWAP members were killed and 23 AK-47 weapons, as well as over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, were recovered.
The statement read, “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, and hybrid forces, timely arrived at the scene to overpower the terrorists.
“Furthermore, the troop reinforcement team encountered an improvised 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.”
The DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to combat terrorism and insurgency in the country.
