Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters said two soldiers have been killed in an Improvised Explosive Devise(IED), explosion planted by the Boko Haram terrorists along Buni-Gari in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
Three soldiers were said to have sustained injuries in the explosion while a recovery truck, one troops carrying vehicle and a water tanker that ran into the IED were destroyed by fire.
The soldiers from Combat Team 1, Operation KANTANA JIMLAN were on long range admin patrol along Buni Yadi – Buni Gari axis when they encountered multiple Improvised Explosive Devices planted by the terrorists.
Coordinator Defence Media Operations Major General John enenche who made this known in a statement however said three terrorists were killed in the encounter while several others escaped with various degrees of injury.
Enenche’s statement reads “The Troops of Combat Team 1, Operation KANTANA JIMLAN on long range admin patrol along Buni Yadi – Buni Gari axis encountered multiple Improvised Explosive Devices and Boko Haram Terrorists’ ambush, eight kilometers ahead of Buni-Gari in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State on the 18 of May 2020.
“Two soldiers paid the supreme price and three other soldiers sustained injuries as a result of the IED explosion. Additionally, a recovery truck, one troops carrying vehicle and a water tanker that ran into the IED were destroyed by fire.Three terrorists were
neutralized while uncomfirmed number escaped with various degrees of injury.
“However, due to mental snap/distress occasioned by fog of war, two of the soldiers who escaped the IED and terrorists’ ambush recorded the incident with uncomplimentary remarks, about the Nigerian Army and her leadership, which was released on the social media. Although this kind of outburst is expected in war, the soldiers involved have been identified and would undergo observation and counselling.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will remain unwavering in its quest to end the terrorism and will do everything possible to ensure there is no repeat of this kind of traumatic incident/outburst.
“The Military High Command commends troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE for their unwavering determination, hardwork and resilience”.