By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have foiled a coordinated multi-directional assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kukawa, Borno State, neutralising more than 25 terrorists and recovering arms and ammunition.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the terrorists launched the attack on troops of 101 Special Forces Battalion from four different flanks.
The troops responded with superior firepower, tactical manoeuvres and effective battlefield coordination, overwhelming the attackers during a fierce counter-offensive.
Supported by the Air Component, the troops inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists and forced surviving elements to flee the area in disarray.
The statement said preliminary assessment indicated that more than 25 terrorists were neutralised, with 14 bodies recovered so far.
During exploitation of the area, the troops also recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including six AK-47 rifles.
The military said further exploitation was ongoing to recover additional weapons, track fleeing terrorists and prevent them from regrouping.
However, some soldiers were killed during the encounter.
The Nigerian Army expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, describing their courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty as an enduring testament to their service to the nation.
It said the successful repulsion of the ISWAP assault underscored the combat readiness and resilience of troops in the North East Theatre, while highlighting the growing effectiveness of air-ground synergy and joint operations in disrupting terrorist activities.
The Army reiterated its determination to sustain operational pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and coordinated offensive actions with sister Services and other security agencies.
It said the ongoing operations were aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, protecting communities and safeguarding the nation.
