Terrorists Kill Eight in Attack on Army Base in Borno

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched an attack on a Nigerian Army base in Mandaragirau, located in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, in the early hours of Friday, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The base falls under the 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI. Despite heavy rainfall and poor visibility, troops at the Forward Operating Base responded and contained the assault, according to military authorities.

The terrorists struck around 3:00 a.m., attempting to breach sections of the base. A fierce counter-offensive by soldiers prevented further incursions and inflicted casualties on the attackers.

Five soldiers lost their lives during the close-quarter battle, while some equipment was also damaged. Three CJTF members also died. The wounded have been airlifted by the Air Component Command and are receiving medical care in stable condition.

Military authorities said the sacrifice of the fallen personnel reflects the highest tradition of service and commitment to national defence. Troops remain in control of the base, with ongoing exploitation operations to consolidate their position.

Local sources reported that the insurgents operated for nearly an hour with minimal resistance following the downpour. A community leader confirmed that more than one location was targeted and called on the government to strengthen security measures and improve grassroots intelligence gathering.