Terrorists Attack Troops, Kill Three Soldiers In Benue State

Three soldiers were killed by terrorists who launched an attack on troops under Operation Hadin Kai, in Kukawa town, Kukawa local government area of Benue State.

Nigeria Army, in a statement on Wednesday, said the terrorists launched the attack on Monday. It stated that in a coordinated response, 12 terrorists were neutralized while weapons were recovered.

It added that a house-to-house search had commenced in the town to ensure the safety of the community.

It read, “In the early hours of 25th November 2024, an unconfirmed number of terrorists, mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles, launched an attack on troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Kukawa Town, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State. The attackers attempted to breach the camp using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) from the Gudumbali axis.

“The gallant troops, in a coordinated and determined response, engaged the terrorists with overwhelming firepower, bolstered by support from the Air Component and the Nigerian Army’s Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Command. This resolute defense forced the terrorists into a disorganized retreat, leaving behind heavy casualties.

“During the confrontation, 12 terrorists were neutralized, while many others fled with gunshot wounds. The following items were recovered from the terrorists: 5 AK-47 rifles, 1 RPG bomb, 1 RPG tube, 2 Anti-Aircraft (AA) guns, 1 QJC gun, 1 NSV heavy machine gun, 40 motorcycles, 152 rounds of Shilka ammunition, among other items.

“Additionally, four out of seven VBIEDs deployed by the terrorists were destroyed. Regrettably, three brave soldiers paid the ultimate price during the attack. Efforts to clear and exploit the area are ongoing, with house-to-house searches being conducted to ensure the area is secure.”

Meanwhile, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their courage. He urged them to sustain momentum with ongoing clearance operations and fighting patrols.

Oluyede assured that Operation Hadin Kai remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate the remnants of terrorism in the North East, fostering an environment where socio-economic activities can thrive in line with its mandate.