By Victor Akaa.
In a daring joint operation, troops of the Nigerian Army and Air Force, yesterday thwarted a terrorist incursion into Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apollonia Anele, troops sequel to a credible intelligence, engaged approximately 300 armed bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest, disrupting their plans to launch coordinated attacks on surrounding communities or seek refuge in Kwatankoro Forest.
She noted that the terrorists attempted a nighttime transit, but troops intercepted them, sparking a fierce firefight lasting over three hours.
According to the statement, “The criminals had attempted a night-time transit towards Kwatankoro Forest, where they were reportedly planning coordinated attacks on surrounding communities or looking for a safe haven to evade the pressure from our operations in Zamfara State.”
“Sequel to the ground engagement by the Nigerian Army troops, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering accurate heavy bombardments on identified terrorists’ locations.” The statement explained.
Their mission was immediately disrupted by the gallant troops.
She regrettebly noted that, during the encounter, seventeen brave soldiers sacrificed their lives, while ten others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in a military medical facility.
She said, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has since extended condolences to the families of fallen heroes, “who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great country, Nigeria.”
He also directed the military medical teams to ensure the best possible care for the injured troops.
As the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission, Lieutenant Colonel Anele, emphasised, “The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged, and the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies, and the great people of our nation, will continue to work tirelessly to see an end to terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality plaguing our society.”
The statement encouraged the public to support counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely information to security agencies.
