Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the Headquarters of the 27 Brigade in Buni Gari, Yobe State, killing at least 50 insurgents during the fierce gun battle.
The Nigerian Army confirmed the development in a statement released on Saturday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
According to the military, the terrorists launched the attack around 2am on Thursday from different directions, targeting both the brigade headquarters and the Buni Gari checkpoint.
The attackers reportedly advanced through the western flank before reinforcing from the southern axis near Ganinga Junction and later attempted to surround troops from the south-western direction.
However, troops responded with heavy firepower and tactical resistance, inflicting heavy casualties on the insurgents and forcing them to retreat.
“The assault, launched under the cover of darkness by a large number of terrorists from multiple axes, was met with devastating firepower, tactical brilliance and resolute determination by troops who held their ground and inflicted catastrophic losses on the attackers,” the statement said.
The Army disclosed that no fewer than 50 terrorists were neutralised during the operation, while several weapons and ammunition were recovered from fleeing fighters.
Military authorities also confirmed that the camp was not breached at any point during the encounter.
“At no point was any part of the camp breached, as the integrity of the location remained fully intact throughout the engagement,” the statement added.
Troops later recovered 10 terrorist corpses around the area, while intelligence reports indicated that more than 20 additional bodies were discovered along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes around Gashua, Azare and Kamuya.
The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI also played a major role by providing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance support, alongside precision airstrikes on identified terrorist hideouts and fleeing insurgents.
Recovered items included eight AK-47 rifles, two General Purpose Machine Guns, two Rocket-Propelled Grenade tubes, five RPG bombs, three RPG chargers, ammunition boxes, loaded magazines, bandoliers and three Improvised Explosive Device canisters.
The Army further revealed that some Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and gun trucks sustained minor damage during the operation, while injured soldiers are currently receiving treatment.
Sadly, two soldiers lost their lives during the confrontation.
“Regrettably, two gallant soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement. Their sacrifice embodies the highest traditions of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation,” the statement added.
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