By Abdullahi Inuwa
Nigerian military forces deployed in Damasak, Borno State, have successfully repelled an attempted infiltration by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, security sources confirmed late Thursday.
According to reports obtained by counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the confrontation began around 9:00 p.m. when a large group of suspected ISWAP militants launched a surprise offensive targeting military positions in the town, which lies close to the border with Niger Republic.
The attackers, said to be heavily armed and in significant numbers, encountered stiff resistance from the alert troops who responded with overwhelming firepower.
Sources from the frontline disclosed that the ensuing gunbattle lasted several hours, resulting in the insurgents being overpowered and forced to withdraw, leaving behind casualties.
Military authorities commended the professionalism and readiness of the troops, stating that their swift action averted what could have been a serious breach of security in the strategically important area.
Damasak has often been a hotspot for terrorist activities, given its proximity to cross-border routes and humanitarian operations. In recent weeks, the Nigerian Army has intensified operations across the region to disrupt terrorist movements and dismantle their logistics networks.
An official statement and further updates are expected following a detailed assessment of the incident.
Source: Zagazola Makama
About The Author
