Troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau under 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI, have successfully repelled a terrorist attack on their position in Borno State, killing several insurgents and preventing the attackers from overrunning the base.
The attack occurred at about 3:00 a.m. on Friday amid heavy rainfall and poor visibility, according to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna M. Sani.
The military said the terrorists attempted to exploit the adverse weather conditions to breach sections of the base but were met with stiff resistance from troops who launched a determined counter-offensive.
According to the statement, the troops decisively thwarted the assault, inflicting casualties on the attackers and forcing them to abandon their attempt to penetrate the facility.
The military described the successful defence of the base as a reflection of the courage, resilience and fighting spirit of troops operating across the North-East theatre.
However, the operation came at a heavy cost, as five soldiers were killed during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat that ensued.
The military also confirmed that three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) lost their lives while supporting the troops during the battle.
Some military equipment was affected during the exchange of fire, the statement added.
Operation HADIN KAI paid tribute to the fallen personnel, describing their sacrifice as a demonstration of the highest standards of patriotism, courage and commitment to national defence.
The military further disclosed that personnel who sustained injuries during the encounter were promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently receiving medical treatment in stable condition.
Despite the attack, troops remain firmly in control of the Forward Operating Base and continue to dominate the surrounding area, while exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing to consolidate the gains achieved.
The military noted that the failed assault highlights the increasing desperation of terrorist groups facing sustained pressure from ongoing military operations across the North-East.
It added that additional troops and critical combat enablers have been deployed to strengthen security and maintain pressure on insurgent elements while ensuring the protection of communities in the region.
