The Nigerian Army has confirmed that 17 soldiers were killed and 10 others injured during a fierce confrontation with terrorists in Bangi, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The encounter, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, involved a joint operation between ground troops and the Nigerian Air Force to thwart a planned incursion into the community by about 300 armed terrorists.
Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja. She said the terrorists had attempted a night-time transit through Kwanar Dutse Forest, heading towards Kwatankoro, in what was believed to be an attempt to either launch coordinated attacks on nearby communities or seek refuge from ongoing military operations in Zamfara State.
“Troops, acting on credible intelligence, engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours,” the statement said.
Anele further revealed that the Nigerian Air Force subsequently conducted precision airstrikes on the withdrawal routes of the terrorists, inflicting significant casualties. While the exact number of terrorists killed has not been confirmed, blood trails along their escape routes indicated heavy losses.
“Further operations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the damage inflicted on the terrorists,” she added.
Sadly, 17 soldiers lost their lives in the battle, while 10 others sustained injuries. The wounded personnel have been evacuated to military medical facilities and are reported to be in stable condition.
Reacting to the development, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. He also directed the Army medical corps to ensure optimal care for the wounded and mandated relevant departments to engage fully with the bereaved families.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to secure all communities and protect the lives and property of our citizens across the nation. The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” the statement added.
The Army reiterated its call for public support and urged citizens to continue providing timely information to security agencies.
