Two Nigerian soldiers were killed while three others sustained injuries after troops of the Nigerian Army repelled a coordinated terrorist attack during an operation in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Military sources disclosed on Friday that the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on June 30 when troops of the 8 Division, deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tidibale, acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of terrorists in Tagirke Village.
According to the sources, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, forcing the attackers to abandon their positions and retreat from the village.
However, while withdrawing after the successful operation, the troops reportedly ran into a carefully planned ambush mounted by the fleeing terrorists.
During the ensuing exchange of fire, one of the military gun trucks struck an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in casualties among the soldiers.
“Two soldiers paid the supreme price, while three others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” a military source said.
The source added that the remains of the slain soldiers were evacuated to the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) mortuary in Sokoto, while the injured personnel were taken to the 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital, where they were stabilised and are receiving treatment.
Military sources further disclosed that the damaged gun truck was recovered from the scene and towed back to the Forward Operating Base in Tidibale for repairs and further assessment.
The sources said troops have since intensified offensive operations to track down the fleeing terrorists, recover any missing weapons and deny the criminal elements freedom of action within the area.
The latest operation, according to the military, reflects the Nigerian Army’s sustained offensive against terrorist groups operating across the North-West through intelligence-led operations aimed at degrading their capabilities, protecting vulnerable communities and restoring lasting peace and security in the region.
