…troops of Operation HADIN KAI had announced the clearance of multiple terrorist camps
BORNO, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Five troops were killed after a Boko Haram suicide bomber crashed an explosives-laden vehicle into a military convoy operating in the Timbuktu Triangle of Borno State, leaving several other troops injured.
Security sources said the attack also affected two senior officers, a major and a lieutenant, while causing extensive damage to military equipment used in ongoing clearance operations.
A soldier disclosed that the troops were returning from a successful mission that dislodged several insurgent camps and killed many terrorists when the suicide attack occurred.
“Operations always come with setbacks, but we are pushing through. Sadly, we lost five soldiers. The commander is safe and the operation is still ongoing,” an officer said.
Armoured and logistics vehicles were destroyed in the blast, which happened on Tuesday. The remains of the fallen soldiers have been flown to Maiduguri, while those injured are receiving treatment in hospital.
Earlier, troops of Operation HADIN KAI had announced the clearance of multiple terrorist camps and the recovery of arms during Operation DESERT SANITY.
Confirming the incident, OPHK spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said soldiers encountered two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices while consolidating positions north of Chilaria. One was neutralised, but the second breached defences, leading to casualties.
He said wounded soldiers were evacuated by army helicopters to medical facilities, with airforce support providing cover as ground troops continued operations and neutralised more terrorists.
