- Over 35 ISWAP terrorists killed in coordinated operation as troops repelled attack around Kumshe, Borno border community.
- Injured insurgents evacuated to Zangeri camp near Gulumba Gana while others abandoned or buried on battlefield.
Troops of the Nigerian army have killed more than 35 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Borno state.
The operation was carried out under Operation Hadin Kai in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force.
The attack happened on Saturday after insurgents attempted to overrun military positions in Kumshe, a border community.
According to counter-insurgency publication, Zagazola Makama, the terrorists advanced from the Gulumba Gana axis before they were repelled.
Preliminary reports revealed that the insurgents lost at least 35 fighters during the exchange of gunfire.
Some injured fighters were said to have been moved to Zangeri camp, while others were buried or abandoned.
One soldier was killed in the operation, while two others sustained injuries.
To support the ground assault, the air force launched precision strikes on terrorist gathering points near the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
The strikes were reported to have disrupted ISWAP’s ability to mobilise reinforcements.
In a statement, the director of public relations and information, Ehimen Ejodame, said the air strikes destroyed four ISWAP camps.
He explained that communication with ground forces after the bombardments confirmed the stabilisation of the area.
“The latest operation demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to providing close air support to ground troops,” Ejodame said.
He added that the strikes disrupted terrorist logistics networks and blocked movement corridors in the border axis.
The chief of air staff, Hasan Bala Abubakar, praised the bravery of troops and commended the precision of the aircrew.
Abubakar assured that the air force would sustain intelligence-driven operations until the terrorist threat is eliminated.
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