Borno – 34 Boko Haram/ISWAP militants are eliminated by troops, resulting in the deaths of six soldiers

On Wednesday, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that a fierce conflict at Sabon Gari Community, Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State, resulted in the neutralization of over 34 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

Additionally, six soldiers were killed during the assault.

In a statement titled “Terrorists Killed in Attack on Sabon Gari in Damboa LGA of Borno State,” Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this.

He disclosed that the terrorists, who were riding motorcycles and gun trucks, attempted to retaliate for the recent killing of their commanders. However, they were ultimately defeated by joint air and ground forces.

The statement states that on January 4, 2025, a firefight ensued between troops stationed in Sabon Gari Village of Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State and an unspecified number of ISWAP/BHT militants operating motorcycles and gun trucks. The terrorists had endeavored to avenge the recent death of their commander and combatants by troops by attempting to surprise troops.

“The terrorists were caught off guard when the troops’ fighting patrol, upon their return to the base, thwarted their intended attack immediately after the assault had commenced.” Furthermore, a reinforcement team that included members of the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilante, and hybrid forces arrived at the location in time to defeat the militants.

The reinforcement team arrived in time to decimate the fleeing terrorists, despite the fact that they encountered an improvised explosive device that injured the vigilante commander, as the statement further detailed the battle. Additionally, the aviation component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted air interdictions against the terrorists who were fleeing.

The battle damage assessments indicated that 34 terrorists were slain, and 23 AK-47 rifles and more than 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were recovered.

The military’s toll was also underscored in the statement: “Sadly, six personnel were killed in action.” Please be advised that the names of the personnel who were slain in action are being withheld to facilitate the completion of the administrative process of notifying their next of kin. Consequently, the media is kindly requested to adhere to this process.

“In general, the Nigerian Armed Forces are acutely aware of their role and obligation to eradicate terrorism and insurgency within the country.” Consequently, the soldiers are steadfast in their dedication to the objective of defeating the terrorists.