The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of three soldiers during an operation to repel a Boko Haram terrorist attack in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The incident occurred on Monday, November 25, 2024, involving troops of Operation Hadin Kai.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the military disclosed that the troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion were attacked by terrorists mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles.
The assailants attempted to breach the camp using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) from the Gudumbali axis.
The statement noted, “In the early hours of November 25, 2024, an unconfirmed number of terrorists launched an attack on troops in Kukawa Town, Kukawa Local Government Area.
The attackers attempted to breach the camp with a VBIED. However, the gallant troops, in a coordinated and determined response, engaged the terrorists with overwhelming firepower, bolstered by support from the Air Component and the Nigerian Army’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Command.”
During the confrontation, 12 terrorists were neutralised, while many others fled with gunshot wounds. The troops recovered weapons and equipment, including AK-47 rifles, RPG bombs, RPG tubes, anti-aircraft guns, heavy machine guns, motorcycles, and rounds of Shilka ammunition. Four out of seven VBIEDs deployed by the terrorists were also destroyed.
Soldiers Pay the Ultimate Price
Despite the troops’ heroic efforts, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the loss of three soldiers. “Regrettably, three brave soldiers paid the ultimate price during the attack,” the statement read.
Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their bravery and urged them to maintain their momentum. He also extended his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers.
The statement added, “Efforts to clear and exploit the area are ongoing, with house-to-house searches being conducted to ensure the area is secure.”
Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism in the Northeast and fostering a secure environment for socio-economic activities.
