No fewer than 21 terrorists were killed by troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai during a fierce encounter in Sojiri and Kayamla villages along the Damboa–Maiduguri Road in Borno State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported on Sunday that the operation was carried out in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
A credible military source disclosed that the encounter followed actionable intelligence indicating a large gathering of terrorists along the axis, suspected to be finalising plans for coordinated attacks on nearby communities.
According to the source, troops swiftly mobilised after receiving the intelligence and made contact with the terrorists, estimated to be about 100 in number, at about noon on Saturday.
The firefight reportedly intensified in the early hours of Sunday, around 12:15 a.m., as the terrorists attempted to overwhelm the troops.
“Despite attempts by an additional group of terrorists to flank our forces, the troops held their ground and applied superior firepower,” the source said.
He added that at least 17 bodies were confirmed at the scene, while more casualties were suspected as blood trails were observed leading into surrounding bushes, bringing the total number of terrorists neutralised to no fewer than 21.
Items recovered during the operation included assorted arms, ammunition and other logistics, as troops sustained pressure on the fleeing terrorists to deny them freedom of movement.
The source further explained that a tactical withdrawal was later carried out to stabilise the situation and allow troops to regroup.
“A tactical withdrawal was executed to consolidate gains and enable the troops to reorganise. Troop morale remains high despite the intensity of the encounter,” he said.
The military reiterated its commitment to sustaining offensive operations under Operation Hadin Kai to protect Maiduguri, Damboa and other surrounding communities in the North-East from terrorist threats.
