Fierce gun battle in Borno as troops repel terrorists attack on Chibok

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Troops of the Nigerian Army early Saturday have foiled a massive attack on Chibok community, Borno State, by more than 300 terrorists after over two hours gun-battle with the insurgents.

The terrorists who stormed Chibok at about 2:50 a.m. from multiple directions were repelled in what analysts described as a showcase of gallantry and tactical discipline in the heat of battle by Nigerian troops.

A credible military source said the battle-ready troops of the 28 Task Force Brigade, backed by ambush teams and observation posts on surrounding mountains, picked up early movement of the terrorists and engaged them instantly.

According to him, the soldiers held their ground for over two hours in a fierce firefight that forced the terrorists to abandon their push and begin a chaotic withdrawal towards the Azir axis at about 5:00 a.m.

The sources said the 25 Brigade was immediately tasked to mount ambush positions ahead of the Azir Bridge to intercept the fleeing insurgents, with movements guided by a Nigerian Army UAV.

“Although the terrorists scattered into several directions on sensing the approach, troops successfully disrupted their escape.

“No soldier or equipment was lost in the encounter”, a development some officials described as a testament to the combat readiness and resilience of the troops.

“Exploitation operations were ongoing at the time of filing this report,” he said.

(NAN)