On January 4, 2025, troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces, supported by local security operatives, successfully foiled an attack by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists in Sabon Gari Village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The terrorists, who were riding motorcycles and gun trucks, launched the assault in an attempt to retaliate against the recent elimination of one of their commanders by security forces.
The attack was thwarted when a fighting patrol returning to base engaged the insurgents as they commenced their assault.
Reinforcements comprising elements of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces quickly arrived at the scene, overwhelming the attackers. Despite encountering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) that injured the Vigilante Commander, the reinforcement team effectively decimated the fleeing terrorists.
Additionally, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted targeted airstrikes on the retreating insurgents. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that 34 terrorists were killed in the operation. Troops also recovered 23 AK-47 rifles, over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and other weapons from the scene.
Regrettably, six personnel were killed in action during the encounter. The names of the fallen heroes have been withheld to allow proper notification of their next of kin. The Armed Forces has called on the media to respect this process.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the Nigerian Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to eradicating insurgency and terrorism in the country.
“The Armed Forces remain steadfast in fulfilling their responsibility of protecting the nation and defeating terrorism,” he stated.
The military continues to reassure Nigerians of its dedication to restoring peace and security across affected regions.
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