After Losing Two Brave Soldiers, Gallant Troops Eliminate Dozens of Terrorists in New Marte
In a fierce display of bravery and combat prowess, Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai repelled a deadly assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on New Marte, Borno State, eliminating scores of insurgents and foiling their coordinated midnight attack.
The confrontation, which occurred around 1:35 a.m. on Tuesday, saw the insurgents launch a surprise offensive on the military formation using about 20 motorcycles and a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) in an attempt to breach the defensive perimeter of the base.
Despite the initial intensity of the assault, Nigerian soldiers courageously stood their ground. In the exchange of gunfire, at least fifteen terrorists were gunned down before two gallant soldiers succumbed to fatal injuries. Their sacrifice was instrumental in halting the terrorist advance.
Reinforcements from the Nigerian Air Force Air Component were swiftly deployed, delivering precision airstrikes that shattered the momentum of the attackers. The VBIED, designed to inflict mass casualties, was abandoned as ISWAP fighters fled in disarray under sustained ground and aerial bombardment.
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A defence intelligence source told PRNigeria that over 30 terrorists were neutralised during the fierce confrontation.
“They came in like a swarm, heavily armed, and used a VBIED to spearhead the assault. But once our troops responded and the air component engaged, they were completely overwhelmed. As they attempted to flee, airstrikes decimated their ranks, while ground troops eliminated scores in direct combat. Only a few managed to escape, likely with severe injuries,” the source said.
Zagazola Makama also reported that the terrorists abandoned the VBIED and were seen dragging the bodies of their casualties into the bush, describing the failed assault as a major blow to the insurgents.
PRNigeria learned that the retreating insurgents made frantic efforts to recover their dead and wounded but left behind several destroyed motorcycles and blood trails near the New Marte airstrip—evidence of the heavy toll inflicted by the Nigerian forces.
Additionally, troops thwarted a separate incursion by ISWAP fighters on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kumshe. The terrorists were repelled following another intense exchange of gunfire, with several insurgents believed to have been neutralized in the encounter.
The Nigerian military continues to demonstrate unmatched resilience and tactical superiority in the theatre of operations, despite the loss of brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.
By PRNigeria
