Troops of 198 Special Forces Battalion, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB), Katarko under Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 23 terrorists , while repelling a coordinated attack by Boko Haram Terrorists in the early hours of Thursday, 23 October 2025.
Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 402 Special Forces Brigade, Lt. Bashir Abdulmumin in a statement issued Thursday said at about 0305 hours, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate Jatarko in Gujiba local government area of Yobe State using highly sophisticated weapons.
However, he noted that the troops, displaying superior firepower, tactical resilience, and dogged determination, overwhelmed the terrorists and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy.
Abdulmumin added that following the engagement, the troops pursued the fleeing terrorists up to Gazargana, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and abandon several weapons and equipment.
He noted: “During the encounter, the troops recorded no casualty, while 23 terrorists were neutralised and several others escaped with gunshot wounds.”
Abdulmumin said items recovered from the terrorists include 4 x PKT guns, 14 x AK-47 rifles, 1 x RPG tube, 2 x RPG bombs, 2 x 60mm Commando Mortar bombs, 2 x hand grenades, 3 x IED materials, 1 x damaged radio, and assorted ammunition of various calibres.
He stressed that in the aftermath of the attack, the Commander 402 Special Forces Brigade, Brig-Gen. Mohammed Shehu, visited the troops at FOB Katarko where he commended their bravery, doggedness, and combat efficiency.
As part of the visit, the Commander proceeded to the Level 2 Hospital in Damaturu, where he checked on personnel who sustained minor injuries during recent operations.
He commended their courage and assured them of the Army’s continued support and commitment to their quick recovery and welfare.