The successful rescue of Nigerian Army troops and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members from an ISWAP ambush in the Damboa–Biu axis of Borno State has taken a tragic turn, as the commander leading the operation was later killed by terrorists who reportedly intercepted a communication detailing his safe location, PRNigeria reports.
The Brigade Commander, whose name remains undisclosed, had earlier confirmed his safety to superior officials following a successful air-ground operation. However, according to sources, reports of his location compelled the terrorists to track him down, leading to his capture and subsequent summary execution after an interrogation.
PRNigeria had earlier reported the joint military operation where Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft swiftly intervened to rescue the ground troops who came under heavy ambush by ISWAP terrorists.
The initial operation began when ground troops, led by the Brigadier General, moved into the area, unknowingly navigating a booby-trapped route.
Following an exchange of gunfire, a surge in terrorist numbers compelled the commander to order a tactical withdrawal and send a distress message requesting air support.
The NAF aircraft rapidly diverted from different missions to provide close air support, delivering the essential relief required to disperse the terrorists and save the military commander, his troops, and the accompanying CJTF members.
A defence intelligence source told PRNigeria that the joint effort resulted in the killing of scores of terrorists, with the military recording minimal casualties during the successful operation.
The tragic subsequent killing of the commander underscores the continued operational risks and the critical need for absolute security in military communications within the North-East theatre