The Defence Headquarters has confirmed a deadly clash between Nigerian troops and insurgents in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, on January 4, 2025.
The encounter left six soldiers and 34 terrorists dead, according to Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Major General Buba disclosed that the attack was initiated by insurgents from the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram.
The insurgents, riding motorcycles and gun trucks, reportedly sought to retaliate against recent losses, including the deaths of their commanders during earlier military operations.
Buba explained that the attack was met with strong resistance.
He said, “On January 4, 2025, an unspecified number of ISWAP/BHT terrorists riding on motorcycles and Gun trucks engaged troops deployed in Sabon Gari village of Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State in a firefight. The terrorists had attempted to surprise troops and retaliate against the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops.
“The terrorists were taken unaware when troops fighting a patrol returning to base foiled their planned attack as soon as the attack commenced. Additionally, the troop’s reinforcement team comprising elements of the Civilian Joint Task Force, vigilantes as well and hybrid forces timely arrived at the scene to overpower the terrorists.
“Furthermore, although troops’ reinforcement team encountered an Improvised Explosive Device injuring the Vigilante Commander. The reinforcement team arrived in time to decimate the fleeing terrorist. “
In addition, airstrikes by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI targeted the retreating terrorists. These operations led to the elimination of 34 insurgents and the recovery of significant weaponry, including 23 AK-47 rifles and over 200 rounds of ammunition.
Buba said, “Furthermore, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorist. Battle Damage Assessment revealed several killed terrorists and recovered weapons.
“On the whole, 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons were recovered. Troops also recovered with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Sadly, six personnel were killed in action.”
“Kindly note that the names of killed in-action personnel are withheld to allow administrative procedures of notifying their Next of Kin to be concluded. Accordingly, the media is requested to respect the process, please,” Buba said.
