Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have launched an attack on a military base in Ngamdu, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.
Daily Trust reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, when a large number of insurgents stormed the camp located along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway.
Motorists and commercial drivers said the road was blocked by the military following the assault, causing traffic disruptions until around 11:20 a.m.
“I left Damaturu very early with the hope of arriving in Maiduguri around 9 a.m. for an engagement, but on reaching Ngamdu, the road was closed,” a traveller said.
“Some security personnel told us to be patient, that there was a problem on the road. But residents said Boko Haram attacked the soldiers and killed some of them,” he added.
According to local sources, the terrorists took the soldiers by surprise, leading to a fierce gun battle that lasted for several hours before the insurgents retreated.
“The attack lasted for hours before the insurgents retreated, but they killed and wounded soldiers,” a resident said.
A security source confirmed the incident but downplayed reports of heavy casualties.
“Well, the terrorists attempted an ambush, but our gallant soldiers repelled them, and we had a good fight,” the source said.
When asked about casualties, he added, “Yes, some soldiers were wounded and taken to hospital, but many insurgents were also killed.”
The military is yet to officially comment on the attack as of the time of filing this report.