The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that six soldiers lost their lives during an attack by ISWAP (Islamic State’s West Africa Province) and Boko Haram militants on a military base in Borno State. In a statement issued yesterday, DHQ reported that 34 terrorists were neutralized in the confrontation, with 23 AK-47 rifles and over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition recovered. The incident occurred on January 4, 2025, when a group of ISWAP/Boko Haram militants on motorcycles and gun trucks launched a surprise assault on troops stationed in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack was reportedly a retaliation for the recent killing of one of their commanders and several combatants. However, the military foiled the ambush as patrol troops returning to base countered the assault swiftly. A reinforcement team, including elements from the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces, responded promptly, overwhelming the insurgents. During the operation, the reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), injuring the Vigilante Commander. Despite this, they managed to overpower the remaining terrorists. The air component of Operation HADIN KAI further targeted the fleeing militants, killing several and aiding in the successful recovery of weapons. While 34 terrorists were neutralized, six military personnel were tragically killed. DHQ noted that the names of the fallen soldiers are being withheld until their next of kin are officially informed, urging the media to respect the process. The military reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring national security, emphasizing its resolve to end insurgency in Nigeria. Since 2009, northern Nigeria has faced persistent attacks from jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, as well as criminal groups. The conflict has led to over 40,000 deaths and the displacement of approximately two million people in the northeast. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the rise of a new terrorist group, known as ‘Lukarawas,’ which is worsening security challenges in northwestern Nigeria. This revelation was made by Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, during a press briefing on military activities held in Abuja on Thursday. Maj.-Gen. Buba stated that the group emerged from the Republic of Niger following a coup that disrupted military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger. He explained that the terrorists began to infiltrate northern Sokoto and Kebbi States from the Niger Republic and the Mali region, with their activities increasing after the coup in Niger. Before the coup, joint border operations with Nigerien security forces helped prevent terrorist activities. However, the lack of collaboration post-coup created opportunities for the terrorists to exploit challenging terrains and penetrate remote parts of the northwestern region, spreading their extremist agenda. Maj.-Gen. Buba noted that the group’s presence was initially accepted by local communities, who mistakenly believed the group had good intentions and did not report their movements to security agencies. He assured the public that military forces were maintaining Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations to weaken the terrorist group. He added that the group continues to use vast, under-governed areas as hideouts to avoid detection, harass residents, and evade troops. However, he emphasized that the military is tracking down and neutralizing the threat. READ ALSO: GeneralRector of Catholic Seminary in Edo Kidnapped, Now Freed
