Nigerian troops have foiled a planned Boko Haram assault in Bama, Borno State, killing multiple insurgents and dismantling their camps, the army confirmed on Monday.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the counter-operation was carried out on 17 October by troops under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade.
Anele said intelligence reports revealed that the terrorists were regrouping around Kashimri to target civilian populations and disrupt social and economic activities.
“Troops responded swiftly, advancing on the identified locations and engaging the terrorists in a heavy exchange of fire. Several militants were neutralised, while others fled with injuries,” she said. “Their hideouts and camps were also destroyed during the operation.”
The army, however, suffered casualties. The Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lt.-Col. Aliyu Paiko, along with a number of soldiers, was killed in action.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, extended his condolences to the bereaved families, paying tribute to the fallen soldiers as heroes who gave their lives in service to their country. He reaffirmed the army’s determination to eradicate terrorism, saying their sacrifice “will never be in vain”.
The army also urged the public and media organisations to refrain from sharing images of deceased personnel until their families are formally notified, in order to uphold respect and dignity for the fallen and their loved ones.
