Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau, under 25 Brigade of Sector 2, Operation Hadin Kai, successfully foiled a terrorist attack in the early hours of Friday despite adverse weather conditions and poor visibility occasioned by heavy rainstorms.
However, five soldiers and three civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) members paid the supreme price during the encounter.
Acting Media Information Officer, Lt-Col. Haruna Sani in a statement issued Friday said the terrorists launched the attack at approximately 0300 hours and attempted to breach sections of the FOB under the extreme weather conditions.
He added that the determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers.
Sani noted: “The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau, and reflects the courage and determination of our troops across the Theatre.
“Regrettably, in the course of the battle, five gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the intense firefight and close-quarter engagement while some equipment were also affected by the firefight.
“Their sacrifice embodies the highest traditions of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation.
“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.
“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside troops while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition while receiving appropriate medicare.
“These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure.
“All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North East Theatre.”