Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a late-night attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists on a military checkpoint along the Buni Yadi–Buni Gari road in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
Security sources said the attack occurred at about 10:45 p.m. when heavily armed insurgents launched an assault on the checkpoint manned by troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade.
The troops engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, successfully thwarting the assault and forcing the terrorists to retreat after sustaining casualties, although the exact number of those killed has yet to be determined.
Despite the successful defence, two soldiers lost their lives while courageously confronting the attackers.
Military sources also confirmed that one military gun truck was destroyed during the exchange, while one QJC machine gun and one AK-47 rifle were reported missing. Efforts are ongoing to recover the weapons.
Security forces have commenced exploitation of the area to assess the extent of casualties inflicted on the fleeing terrorists and recover any abandoned weapons or equipment.
Reinforcements have since been deployed to the area to strengthen security and prevent any renewed attacks.
The latest incident underscores the continued attempts by ISWAP/JAS elements to target military positions in the North-East despite sustained counterinsurgency operations by Operation HADIN KAI aimed at dismantling terrorist strongholds.
Military authorities said troops remain on high alert and are continuing clearance and pursuit operations to track down the fleeing terrorists and deny them freedom of movement across the theatre.
