The Defence Headquarters announced that a clash in Sabon Gari village, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State resulted in the deaths of over 34 terrorists and six troops on January 4, 2025. Major General Edward Buba stated that Islamic State of West Africa Province and Boko Haram terrorists initiated the attack in retaliation for losses suffered by their leaders and fighters at the hands of the troops. The insurgents, on motorcycles and in gun trucks, encountered strong resistance from a patrol team, preventing their ambush.
In a separate incident, terrorists associated with the Islamic State West Africa Province reportedly killed six soldiers at a Forward Operating Base in the same area. The troops effectively thwarted the surprise attack, with reinforcements swiftly arriving to overpower the terrorists. The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI also engaged in air strikes against the fleeing terrorists, resulting in the elimination of 34 insurgents and the recovery of a significant amount of weapons and ammunition.
Despite the success against the terrorists, six soldiers lost their lives in the operation. The names of the fallen soldiers were not disclosed pending notification of their families. The Defence Headquarters emphasized the ongoing commitment of the Armed Forces to eradicate insurgency and terrorism, underscoring the troops’ unwavering dedication to defeating the terrorist threat.