Nigerian Army troops under Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a coordinated multi-directional assault by Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, terrorists in Kukawa, Borno State, killing more than 25 fighters and recovering a cache of arms and ammunition.
The attack targeted troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion, with the terrorists advancing from four different flanks. The soldiers responded with superior firepower, tactical manoeuvres and coordinated battlefield operations, forcing the attackers into a disorderly retreat.
The Army said some soldiers were killed during the fierce encounter.
Supported by the Air Component, the troops overwhelmed the terrorists and inflicted heavy casualties, while further operations were launched to track those who escaped and prevent them from regrouping.
A preliminary assessment put the number of terrorists killed at more than 25, with 14 bodies recovered so far.
During the exploitation of the area, troops also recovered several weapons and ammunition, including six AK-47 rifles. The Army said further searches were ongoing to locate additional weapons and track the fleeing fighters.
The Army commended the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers involved, while extending condolences to the families of those who died in the operation.
It said the successful repulsion of the assault demonstrated the combat readiness and resilience of troops in the North-East Theatre, as well as the growing effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations against terrorist groups.
The Army reaffirmed its determination to maintain sustained pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and coordinated offensives with other security agencies.
It said the operations would continue until terrorist networks are dismantled, communities are protected and freedom of movement for armed groups across the region is significantly curtailed.
