More than 21 terrorists have been neutralised by Nigerian Army troops during an operation along the Damboa–Maiduguri axis in Borno State.
The operation, conducted under Operation Hadin Kai, took place in Sojiri and Kayamla villages and was carried out in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). A reliable source at Army Headquarters disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday.
According to the source, the encounter occurred around 12:15 a.m. on Sunday following credible intelligence indicating a large gathering of terrorists in the area, suspected to be preparing for coordinated attacks. Troops were immediately mobilised and engaged the terrorists, estimated to be about 100 in number, at noon on Saturday.
Despite attempts by an additional group of terrorists to flank the troops, the soldiers held their ground and repelled the assault using superior firepower.
“At least 17 bodies were confirmed at the scene, while several others were believed to have been neutralised, as blood trails were seen leading into nearby bushes”, the source said.
He added that arms, ammunition, and other logistical items were recovered during the operation, as troops continued to apply pressure to deny the terrorists freedom of movement.
A tactical withdrawal was later carried out to stabilise the situation and allow troops to regroup, with morale reported to be high despite the intensity of the encounter.
The source reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations to protect Maiduguri, Damboa, and surrounding communities in the North-East.
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