The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said yesterday, that troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Operation HADIN KAI came under a coordinated terrorist attack on their location at the Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen. Michael Onoja,who made the disclosure in a statement, noted that scores of the terrorists were killed during the attack that was repelled by troops.
He added that the demonstration of gallantry and combatreadiness by the fighting forces, forces the adversaries to retreat in disarray, abandoning some of their equipment in the process.
General Onoja said: “However, the troops, led by the Commander 29 Brigade, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, responded with exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower. “In a well-coordinated counteraction, the insurgents were decisively engaged and forced to retreat in disarray, abandoning their mission and leaving behind traces of their failed assault”.
He explained this: “This attack is a clear indication of the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered significant losses in recent operations, continue to resort to futile and ill-fated offensives against well-defended military positions.
“The swift and decisive response by troops underscores the high level of combat readiness, resilience, and operational effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI in safeguarding critical locations and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups across the North-East theatre.” The nilitary regretted that the encounter resulted in “the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty”.
“The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation. Their courage will forever remain a source of pride and inspiration to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the entire nation.
“The High Command extends its deepest condolences to their families and loved ones. In line with established military tradition and respect for the fallen, the general public and media are kindly requested to allow the Armed Forces to formally notify the next of kin before the release of further details.
“The public is also urged to disregard misinformation, sensational reports, and unverified content circulating across social media platforms, as these undermine ongoing operations and national security efforts.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, remain resolute and undeterred in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency. Additional clearance and exploitation operations are ongoing in the general area to track and neutralize fleeing insurgents, as well as to deny them any opportunity to regroup”, the DHQ concluded.
