MILITARY troops under Operation Hadin Kai repelled an attempted ambush by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Borno State, killing 13 insurgents and recovering a cache of weapons.
The confrontation occurred on Wednesday, September 3, when soldiers escorting humanitarian aid trucks along the Gubio–Damasak road came under attack near Kareto.
The insurgents detonated two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and opened fire, but the troops quickly regrouped and responded with superior firepower.
Thirteen militants were neutralised on the spot, while others fled in disarray.
In the aftermath, soldiers recovered eight AK-47 rifles, ten magazines, large quantities of 7.62mm ammunition, a camel bag, and several rolls of detonating cord wires believed to be intended for IED production.
Military authorities confirmed that one soldier sustained minor injuries and is in stable condition. However, four Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle tyres were damaged, and two trucks were destroyed by fire during the clash.
Despite this, relief materials were successfully escorted and secured in Damasak.
In a separate operation in Plateau State, troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) intercepted an armed militia at Kaskra in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
Acting on a distress call, soldiers laid an ambush and arrested one suspect armed with an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 11 rounds of ammunition.
Preliminary investigations revealed he was mobilised to carry out attacks on nearby communities in Nding Village. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation.
The Nigerian military reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on insurgents and militias while ensuring the safety of civilians and humanitarian operations across the North-East and North-Central regions.