Bella Ifasola
Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists have killed five Nigerian soldiers and injured ten others in an attack on an army base in the terror-ravaged northeastern state of Borno.
At least four others were confirmed missing after the attack on troops in Gubio Local Government Area of the state, a military spokesman said, noting that many of the terrorists were also killed by operatives.
“The coordinated attack saw five killed in action soldiers, 10 wounded, and four missing in action, while troops eliminated several terrorists as well as recovered weapons,” Director of Defence Media Operations at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, Major General Edward Buba said in a statement.
Buba added that the terrorists also destroyed some equipment during the attack on the troops’ location.
He listed the equipment destroyed to include one gun truck, three TCVs, and an excavator.
The military spokesman said: “A reinforcement team with air components was dispatched to exploit the general area and the terrorists’ withdrawal route.
“Subsequently, a reinforcement team with an air component was dispatched to exploit the general area and the terrorists’ withdrawal route.
“However, it is pertinent to note that such an attack shall not deter the troops and armed forces of Nigeria from seeing the end of terrorism, insurgency, and other insecurity challenges facing the country.”
Buba noted that the Armed Forces remain committed to putting an end to all security challenges plaguing the nation.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum commiserated with the military over the death of soldiers in Kareto, saying the attack reminds the state of the callousness of the deadly Boko Haram terrorists.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased over the demise of our fellow compatriots. May Allah rest their souls and grant fortitude to the affected families,” a statement released by the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security Usman Tar said.