Nigerian Army troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a major attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The fierce battle ended with more than 25 terrorists neutralised during a coordinated military counter-offensive.
The terrorists reportedly launched a multi-directional attack on troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion from four different directions.
However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, tactical manoeuvres and strong battlefield coordination.
The operation received additional support from the Air Component, which helped overwhelm the attackers and force the surviving terrorists to flee.
Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said 14 terrorist bodies had so far been recovered from the battlefield.
He added that troops also recovered six AK-47 rifles and other arms and ammunition during the operation.
According to him, exploitation of the area is continuing to recover more weapons and track down fleeing terrorists to stop them from regrouping.
Captain Goni, however, confirmed that some Nigerian soldiers lost their lives during the fierce encounter.
He said the Nigerian Army sympathises with the families of the fallen soldiers and described their sacrifice as a lasting symbol of courage and service to the nation.
The Army noted that the successful operation reflects the growing effectiveness of joint air and ground operations against terrorists in the North-East.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations to dismantle terrorist networks, protect communities and restore lasting peace across the region.