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Dozens of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents have been gunned down during a fierce clash with Nigerian troops of the 21 Armoured Brigade in Borno State.
According to military insiders, the confrontation occurred on Friday when soldiers conducting clearance operations near Kashimri village in Bama Local Government Area were ambushed by the extremists.
Despite the surprise attack, the troops from Operation Hadin Kai were said to have swiftly countered the assault with superior firepower, neutralising more than 30 insurgents, while several others escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
“Our men came under heavy attack, but they stood their ground,” one security source told reporters.
“More than thirty terrorists were taken out in the exchange, and those who tried to flee didn’t get far before being hit.”
However, the encounter also came with casualties on the side of the security forces.
The officer leading the operation, whose name was not disclosed, was among those killed, along with several soldiers, two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and two vigilantes.
“It was a tough battle,” another military officer said. “We lost some brave men who fought gallantly to protect the people. Their sacrifice will not be in vain.”
The Nigerian Army has since intensified clearance operations across the northeast to dismantle remaining terrorist hideouts and block their movement routes.
Military officials confirmed that troops remain in high morale despite the losses and are determined to sustain pressure on the insurgents.
“Our forces are still combing the area and maintaining dominance,” the source added. “The goal is to completely deny the terrorists any freedom of movement or regrouping opportunity.”
The Borno axis, particularly around Bama and its surrounding communities, has continued to witness sporadic attacks by remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
Security analysts say the recent offensive demonstrates renewed military resolve to weaken the insurgents ahead of the dry season operations.