By Ayo Kehinde
The troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), on Tuesday, repelled an attack by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in New Marte, Borno State, neutralising scores of insurgents in the process.
The operation was confirmed by the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
A statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations at the Theatre Command of OPHK, Captain Reuben Kuvangiya, said the attack was swiftly contained through coordinated ground combat and timely air support.
“Troops from the 24 Task Force Brigade Garrison and the 134 Special Forces Battalion responded immediately, engaging the terrorists in a fierce firefight. Concurrently, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai provided critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), in addition to executing precision airstrikes on fleeing insurgents.
“Several of the attackers were neutralised, and a number of their vehicles and motorcycles destroyed. One Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) SUV abandoned during the pursuit was recovered by troops, along with the lifeless bodies of terrorists and blood trails, indicating further enemy casualties.
“Regrettably, two soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice during the encounter.
“However, troops recovered one Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) SUV abandoned by the terrorists during pursuit. Several motorcycles conveying the terrorists were also destroyed by precision air strikes.
“In a separate but related incident, troops successfully thwarted another attack on the Forward Operating Base in Kumshe, inflicting heavy losses on the assailants.
“The terrorists met a bloody nose”,said Capt. Kuvangiya.
