Suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have launched a fresh midnight attack on Benisheikh town along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road in Borno State, raising renewed security concerns in the area.
NOP NIGERIA understands that Benisheikh is the headquarters of the Kaga Local Government Area of the state.
Sources who spoke with Vanguard said the attack, which began around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, saw armed insurgents advancing toward a military formation.
A credible source disclosed that the attackers were reportedly heading towards the 29 Task Force Brigade of Operation Hadin Kai.
The same location had recently come under attack, during which Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah and several soldiers were killed on April 9.
Amid the renewed assault, fighter jets and military helicopters were observed hovering over Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, located about 75 kilometres from Benisheikh.
Army Confirms Recent Loss Of Personnel
The development comes days after the Nigerian Army confirmed the death of a commanding officer during another terrorist attack in Monguno, Borno State.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Army said six soldiers also lost their lives in the incident.
According to the Army, troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle and successfully repelled the attack, forcing the insurgents to flee.
The statement added that the commanding officer died after his vehicle ran into an Improvised Explosive Device.
“The commanding officer encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel,” the statement read.
Uba expressed the Army’s grief over the loss while commending the fallen soldiers for their service.
He assured that their sacrifices would not be forgotten as efforts to combat insurgency in the region continue.
