Boko Haram: 47 soldiers killed in Borno

Troops currently fighting Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State and environs were engaged in fierce battle with Boko Haram militants during which over 40 soldiers were killed while several others sustained injuries.

Our correspondents gathered that over the last weekend, several ambushes were laid on moving convoys of the Nigerian troops by Boko Haram insurgents across villages in the state.

While moving on an un-tarred route around Gorgi community, the insurgents had targeted and ambushed a rear convoy where the Multi Barrels Rocket Launcher (MBRL) and Sino Truck loaded with soldiers was positioned.

According to a military source, the troops on the Operation AYISOTAMONUMA, had begun movement into Alagarno general area of Borno state precisely on Saturday through Sunday.

On Monday, the troops ran into an ambush as they moved into Goniri area in Yobe.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the killing of at least 47 soldiers by members of the Boko Haram terrorist group in Borno State.

The Director of Defence Information, Major General John Enenche who disclosed this during a session with reporters yesterday in Abuja that troops of

Operation Lafiya Dole were on clearance and fighting patrol operation to Gorgi in Borno between March 21 and 23.

“During consolidation, they (the troops) were ambushed by elements of Boko Haram terrorists. Sadly, we suffered some casualties in the unfortunate attack,” he said.

He said that the Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, as well as the fighter jets engaged the insurgents, killing some, and immobilising a gun truck.

“The Defence Headquarters commiserate with the families of our fallen gallant heroes who paid the supreme price in the course of defending our fatherland,” he said.