The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday when terrorists launched an assault on the base at about 3:00 a.m., taking advantage of heavy rainfall and poor visibility to attempt a breach of the facility.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna Sani, troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive that thwarted the attack and inflicted losses on the insurgents.
The military said the troops maintained control of the base throughout the engagement and successfully prevented further incursions by the attackers.
However, the operation came at a cost, as five soldiers were killed during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat that followed the assault. Three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) also lost their lives in the battle.
Several personnel sustained injuries and were immediately airlifted by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI for medical treatment. The military said the wounded are currently in stable condition.
The statement also noted that some military equipment was damaged during the exchange of fire.
Operation HADIN KAI paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and CJTF members, describing their sacrifice as a demonstration of courage, dedication and commitment to the defence of the country.
The military further stated that troops remain firmly in control of the Forward Operating Base and continue to dominate the surrounding area, while exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing to consolidate gains made during the encounter.
According to the military, the attack reflects what it described as the growing desperation of terrorist groups operating in the North-East amid sustained military pressure and ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Additional troops and critical combat resources have since been deployed to strengthen security in the area and sustain operations against insurgent elements across the theatre.
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