Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation Hadin Kai, have thwarted a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)/Boko Haram terrorists on Damboa town in Borno state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the troops were backed by indirect fire and air interdiction from the air component command, with the gunfight lasting over two hours.
In a statement on Friday, the army disclosed that the operation resulted in the death of sixteen out of the terrorists.
It said the terrorists were sighted around 1 a.m. on May 23 and immediately engaged in a firefight. The battle, which lasted over two hours, was supported by artillery fire and air strikes from the air component command.
The statement reads, “The main thrust of the attack targeted the Brigade, prompting the swift deployment of air support to assist ground forces. After approximately two hours of intense engagement, the terrorists were forced to retreat after suffering casualties.”
“Troops successfully neutralized 16 terrorists in the encounter and are currently conducting a pursuit operation.”
“Although an ammunition storage area was hit during the exchange, it was quickly brought under control with no further escalation.”
During the confrontation, a terrorist projectile struck an ammunition storage site, causing a fire that affected two nearby structures. However, the blaze was quickly contained, preventing further damage.
Military authorities said pursuit operations are ongoing to locate the fleeing insurgents, while clearance missions are being conducted in the surrounding areas.
