Emmanuel Daudu
On January 4, 2025, a daring attempt by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists to attack troops stationed in Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, was decisively repelled by Nigerian Armed Forces.
The attack, reportedly aimed at avenging the recent elimination of a terrorist commander and his fighters, began when the insurgents riding motorcycles and gun trucks engaged troops in a fierce firefight.
However, the troops, on a fighting patrol and bolstered by reinforcements, swiftly foiled the ambush.
The reinforcement team, comprising elements of the Civilian Joint Task Force, vigilantes, and hybrid forces, effectively overwhelmed the attackers. Despite encountering an improvised explosive device (IED) that injured the Vigilante Commander, the combined forces succeeded in decimating the fleeing terrorists.
Adding to the onslaught, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted precision airstrikes on the retreating insurgents.
A Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the elimination of 34 terrorists, with the recovery of 23 AK-47 rifles, over 200 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and other weapons.
Tragically, six personnel were killed in action during the operation.
The Armed Forces have withheld their names pending notification of their next of kin and have urged the media to respect this process.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to ending insurgency and terrorism.
“The Armed Forces remain resolute in their mission to defeat all terrorist threats to the peace and security of our nation,” he stated.
This operation is a testament to the military’s determination to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and bring lasting peace to conflict-affected regions.
Africa Security Investigation News 