The Nigerian Army said its troops on counter insurgency operation in Niger State have foiled a terrorists attack on Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area of the state.
Acting Director Army Public Relations Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, who made this known, said that The troops in collaboration with the Air Component of the Nigerian Air Force, engaged bandits numbering over 300 in Kwanar Dutse Forest.
Sadly seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while ten others sustained varying degrees of injury.
The wounded personnel have been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
Anele in a statement, said the bandits had attempted a night-time transit towards Kwatankoro Forest, where they were reportedly planning coordinated attacks on surrounding communities or looking for a safe haven to evade the pressure from our operations in Zamfara State.
She said “However, their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours.
Anele in a statement, said that “Sequel to the ground engagement by the Nigerian Army troops, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering accurate heavy bombardments on identified terrorists’ locations. “Although the exact number of casualties could not be ascertained, multiple blood trails along their escape routes presumably indicate significant enemy losses. Further operation is ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the damage inflicted on the terrorists.
“Regrettably, seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while ten others sustained varying degrees of injury. The wounded personnel have been evacuated to a military medical facility, where they are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
“The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great country, Nigeria. The Chief of Army Staff also directed the military medical teams to ensure the best possible care for the injured troops. The relevant Nigerian Army departments have also been tasked to engage with the families of all our gallant warriors who have undoubtedly performed their duty, most admirably.
