Four Nigerian soldiers sustained injuries after an improvised explosive device (IED) attack and a subsequent ambush by suspected terrorists along the Damboa–Kumala–Maiduguri main supply route in Borno State.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:45 a.m. at the weekend, approximately nine kilometres from Kumala Junction in Konduga Local Government Area.
According to the sources, troops of the 25 Brigade were on a dominance patrol when they encountered a command-detonated IED planted along the strategic highway.
The explosion was reportedly followed by an ambush launched by suspected terrorists targeting the patrol team.
Despite the attack, the troops were said to have engaged the assailants and fought through the ambush. However, four soldiers sustained varying degrees of injuries during the encounter.
In response, reinforcements from the brigade headquarters, supported by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, were deployed to the scene to reinforce security and clear the route.
The EOD team later discovered and safely neutralised another suspected IED planted along the axis, preventing further danger to commuters and military personnel.
Security sources further revealed that 89 civilian vehicles were successfully escorted to their destinations under military protection, while 165 vehicles were turned back to Damboa as a precautionary measure.
Military authorities said clearance operations were ongoing to restore confidence and ensure safe passage along the critical highway frequently targeted by insurgents.
