Nigerian Troops Repel ISWAP Attack on Borno Military Base

Nigerian military forces have repelled a coordinated attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a military base in Borno State, authorities said on Saturday.

Troops under Operation HADIN KAI successfully defended the Forward Operating Base in Mairari, delivering what the military described as a significant setback to the armed group’s operations in the area.

In a statement, the operation’s Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the assault began late on Friday and continued into the early hours of Saturday. He said the attack was foiled through a combination of ground and air operations.

According to the statement, the attackers attempted to breach the base using two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), both of which were detected and neutralised by troops before they could reach their targets. No breach of the base was recorded.

“CCTV footage and field observations confirmed that several terrorists were killed, while others sustained serious injuries as surviving elements evacuated their dead and wounded.

“Following the failed assault, OPHK troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team, and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a thorough exploitation of the area.

“The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist casualties and the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during their retreat.

“Recovered items included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies, and other materials indicative of sustained terrorist operations,” he said.

Uba said the successful recovery of the terrorists’ equipment and logistics had further degraded their operational capacity and deny them freedom of action in the area.

He said the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK defensive fire, causing damage to two points along the road.

According to him, there was no breach of the FOB, highlighting the preparedness, vigilance, and resilience of the troops.

Uba said the troops were currently conducting aggressive patrols in the area to prevent further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of the continued security presence.

“Troops remain resolute in their commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East.

“The failed attack at Mairari underscores the operational readiness and professionalism of our men and women in uniform.

“Troops of OPHK have continued to prioritise the protection of civilians, the disruption of terrorist networks, and the restoration of peace across the region,” he added. 

NAN