Troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau under 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled a terrorist attack on their location, inflicting significant losses on the attackers despite challenging weather conditions and poor visibility in the North-East.
In a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna Sani, the terrorists launched the attack at about 0300 hours while attempting to breach sections of the FOB during heavy rainfall.
The troops responded swiftly with a decisive counter-offensive, frustrating the attempted incursion and forcing the attackers to retreat after suffering casualties.
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Lieutenant Colonel Sani, stated that the response demonstrated the resilience and combat readiness of personnel at FOB Mandaragirau, reflecting the sustained operational pressure being maintained against terrorist elements across the North-East theatre.
He however, noted that five soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat, while some equipment was damaged during the battle.
Three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) also lost their lives during the encounter, while injured personnel were evacuated by the Air Component Command and are receiving medical treatment. They are reported to be in stable condition.
Operation HADIN KAI honoured the fallen personnel, describing their sacrifice as a reflection of the courage, discipline and commitment required in the defence of the nation.
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed that troops remain in control of FOB Mandaragirau and continue to dominate the surrounding area, with exploitation operations ongoing to consolidate the gains recorded.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Sani, the failed assault reflects the increasing pressure on terrorist groups facing sustained military operations, as additional troops and critical combat enablers continue to strengthen ongoing efforts across the North-East theatre.
