Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
IN a significant escalation of offensive operations, Nigerian Army troops deployed in the embattled North-East have delivered a series of sharp blows to terrorist factions in intense dawn battles, authorities announced today.
According to a press statement from Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, troops of Sector 1 launched a “well-coordinated” surprise attack on the village of Bula Dalo in the early hours of 28 January.
The operation resulted in the neutralisation of over 12 terrorists and the recovery of a substantial arsenal, including four AK-47 rifles, a PKT anti-aircraft gun, and a rocket-propelled grenade launcher.
In a simultaneous, “deliberate operation,” forces struck the Garno terrorist camp, neutralising six more fighters, destroying key logistical structures, and secluding a large cache of anti-aircraft ammunition.
The military’s momentum was tested hours later, however, when terrorists from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) mounted a counter-attack on troops in Sabon Gari, Sector 2, in the early hours of 29 January.
The assault, unusually supported by multiple armed drones, briefly breached a defensive position before being “swiftly thwarted” by troops who held their ground with reinforcements.
The statement confirmed, with regret, that “some courageous troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price” during this defence. An excavator and a lowbed transporter were also damaged by drone strikes.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer, stated that exploitation of the areas is ongoing as operations continue “to deny terrorists freedom of action.”
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and urged continued vigilance.
These engagements underscore the persistent and evolving threat of insurgency in the region, even as the military asserts its “firm control” and aggressive posture.
