Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation Hadin Kai, repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists on Damboa town in Borno State.
The troops were backed by indirect fire and air interdiction from the air component command, with the gunfight lasting over two hours.
According to a statement Friday by the army, at about 1am on May 23, troops sighted the terrorists in Damboa and immediately engaged them in a gun duel.
The statement said the operation resulted in the death of at least 16 terrorists.
“The main thrust of the attack targeted the Brigade, prompting the swift deployment of air support to assist ground forces. After approximately two hours of intense engagement, the terrorists were forced to retreat after suffering casualties,” the statement reads.
“Troops successfully neutralized 16 terrorists in the encounter and are currently conducting a pursuit operation.
“Although an ammunition storage area was hit during the exchange, it was quickly brought under control with no further escalation.”
Although the troops were able to regain control of the situation, one of the terrorists’ projectiles caused an explosion that ignited a fire at an ammunition storage facility.
The fire impacted two structures before it was promptly contained.
Military authorities said pursuit operations are ongoing to locate the fleeing insurgents, while clearance missions are being conducted in the surrounding areas.
Damboa, located in Southern Borno, has been a frequent target of ISWAP attacks.