The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that no fewer than 14 Nigerian soldiers have been killed by Boko Haram in what has been described as one of the worst attacks in recent times. It also confirmed that at least 30 soldiers were also wounded and are now receiving medical attention.
A statement by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade today said that most of those declared missing in action had also rejoined their unit in the ongoing reorganisation for further operations.
Olukolade said that although, several of the terrorists died in the course of the attack and efforts at repelling the assailants, the actual figure of civilian casualties has not yet been creditably determined.
He said that the situation in Baga is still being studied to determine the appropriate action that would restore law, order and normalcy to the community after the attack.
Meanwhile, troops are conducting mop-up operation around Damaturu, Yobe State, after successfully foiling and containing the terrorists’ attempt to occupy parts of the town, the Defence Headquarters said.
The terrorists had launched a massive attack from different directions of the town on Friday evening, but troops were promptly mobilised to repel the attack that lasted the night, resulting in heavy casualty on the part of the terrorists before the rest of them retreated.
General Olukolade said that weapons, including IEDs and Rocket Propelled Grenades captured from the terrorists, were being compiled while the dead as well as civilian casualties were yet to be determined.
The statement said the troops were on the trail of the fleeing terrorists while five soldiers, who were seriously wounded in the attack, were being treated in the military medical facility.
“Although, normalcy has been restored, the town is also being reinforced with more troops.” [myad]
