By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a coordinated terrorist attack in the Ngamdu general area of Borno State, following a swift and decisive response by forces on ground and reinforcement elements from the 29 Task Force Brigade.
In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the terrorists launched a sustained assault employing Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs), armed drones, and command-initiated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) targeted at troops and operational platforms. Despite the intensity of the assault, the troops reportedly held their positions and responded with superior firepower, inflicting significant losses on the terrorists.
“Despite the ferocity of the attack, our troops stood their ground and countered with superior firepower, leading to the neutralization of several terrorists,” the statement said. Lieutenant Colonel Uba, however, confirmed that four soldiers were killed in action (KIA) while five others sustained various degrees of injuries (WIA) during the encounter. Some Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles and Gun Trucks (GTs) were also damaged in the course of the battle.
He further revealed that the terrorists made attempts to impede reinforcements and cause additional casualties by planting multiple IEDs along the Ngamdu–Damaturu Main Supply Route (MSR). This led to a temporary closure of the route as combat engineers were promptly deployed to clear three IED-laden spots. Following the successful clearance, the route has since been reopened for both military and civilian movement.
According to the statement, the troops were immediately resupplied with essential logistics, including MRAP tyres and ammunition, to sustain operations and restore full mobility. Credible intelligence sources also confirmed that the terrorists suffered heavy casualties, with reports indicating that about fifteen bodies were buried by the insurgents around Bula Wura, near Wasaram.
As part of efforts to maintain momentum and deny the terrorists freedom of action, the 29 Task Force Brigade has launched fighting patrols and exploitation operations across the general area. These operations, Lieutenant Colonel Uba added, are aimed at consolidating the gains recorded during the encounter and sustaining pressure on the fleeing insurgents.
He commended the gallantry and resilience of the troops, assuring the public that normalcy has been restored in the area and that ongoing operations will ensure the continued safety and security of all residents within the Ngamdu axis and its environs.
