Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled multiple attacks launched by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on military positions in Borno State.
The attacks occurred between Sunday night and Monday morning.
Military locations affected include Delwa, Goniri, Kukawa, Mainok and a troops’ harbour position in the Sambisa Forest.
The Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday.
He said the terrorists launched simultaneous attacks from different directions in an attempt to overwhelm the troops.
However, he said the troops responded effectively and repelled the assaults.
“Our troops stood firm despite the heavy firepower employed by the terrorists and responded with determination,” Uba said.
According to him, reinforcements and the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai supported the troops during the engagements.
The terrorists were eventually forced to withdraw after suffering casualties.
Uba said troops recovered several weapons abandoned by the fleeing insurgents.
Items recovered include two PKT machine guns, six AK-47 rifles, eight rocket-propelled grenade bombs, four mortar bombs and assorted ammunition.
He said parts of the defensive perimeters at Goniri and Kukawa were briefly breached during the fighting.
Some structures and military vehicles were also damaged during the attacks.
However, Uba said all the military locations remain under the control of the troops.
He added that follow-up operations are currently ongoing in the affected areas.
Troops have also launched search operations in nearby communities following intelligence that some wounded terrorists fled there.
Uba confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the engagements.
“Sadly, the engagements claimed the lives of some brave soldiers including an officer in Kukawa,” he said.
He assured that troops remain committed to continuing operations against insurgents in the North-East.