Nigerian Army Confirms 17 Soldiers K!lled By Terrorists Who Attacked Military Base In Niger State
The Nigerian Army has confirmed a terrorist attack on its base in the Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, on Tuesday, reporting that 17 soldiers were k!lled during the incursion.
It had earlier been reported that about 20 soldiers were k!lled when bandits stormed the military base near Bangi, in the Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to a release by Lt Col Appolonia Anele, the acting Director, Army Public Relations, on Wednesday and obtained by SaharaReporters, the operation, which was based on credible intelligence, led to troops engaging about 300 bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest.
She said, “The criminals 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. However, their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours.
“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.”
SaharaReporters had reported that the gunmen reportedly launched a surprise attack and overran the camp after a fierce gun battle, leaving many troops dead and others wounded.
