Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled a terrorist attack on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau in Borno State, killing several insurgents and preventing the attackers from overrunning the military position despite difficult weather conditions.
The attack occurred on Friday when terrorists launched an assault on the base under the cover of heavy rainfall and poor visibility, military authorities said.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Haruna M. Sani, the attackers attempted to breach sections of the base but were met with stiff resistance from troops deployed at the facility.
The military said soldiers mounted a fierce counter-offensive that successfully halted the assault, forcing the terrorists to retreat after suffering casualties.
“The determined response by troops decisively frustrated the attack and inflicted losses on the terrorists,” the statement said.
However, the military disclosed that five soldiers were killed during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat that followed the attempted invasion of the base.
Three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) also lost their lives while supporting the military during the operation.
Several other personnel sustained injuries and were subsequently evacuated by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai for medical treatment. Military authorities said the wounded are in stable condition and receiving appropriate care.
The military also confirmed that some equipment was damaged during the exchange of fire, although details were not disclosed.
Despite the casualties, Operation Hadin Kai said troops remain firmly in control of the base and continue to dominate the surrounding area.
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Follow-up exploitation operations have also been launched to track fleeing terrorists and consolidate gains recorded during the engagement.
The military described the attack as another indication of the increasing desperation of insurgent groups facing sustained pressure from ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-East.
It added that additional troops and critical combat assets have been deployed to strengthen security and maintain operational momentum throughout the theatre.
Paying tribute to the fallen personnel, Operation Hadin Kai said the soldiers and CJTF members demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication in defending the nation.
“Their sacrifice embodies the highest traditions of service, courage and commitment to the defence of Nigeria,” the military said.
Operation Hadin Kai reiterated its commitment to protecting communities across the North-East and sustaining offensive operations aimed at defeating terrorist groups and restoring lasting peace to the region.