Commanding officer, six soldiers die in IED explosion
Barely five days after the death of the Brigade Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade and some soldiers during an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP on a military base at
Barely five days after the death of the Brigade Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade and some soldiers during an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP on a military base at Benishikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State, a commanding officer and six soldiers were on Sunday killed in the Northeast, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed yesterday.
Speaking through the spokesperson of Operation Hadin Kai, Col. Sani Uba, in a statement yesterday, the military high command said the officer and the soldiers were killed when their vehicle ran into an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by terrorists.
It explained that the commanding officer and his troops had courageously proceeded to Sector 3 of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), after it came under an isolated terrorist attack on the “Charlie 13” location in Monguno.
According to the military high command, the commanding officer had intended to assess the situation of the troops following the attack, but “regrettably, he encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), which severely damaged his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other personnel.”
The DHQ said: “His actions, even after the immediate threat had been neutralised, reflected the highest traditions of military leadership; courage, selfless service, and leading from the front.
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“His willingness to move towards the troops in the heat of the battle, despite the prevailing danger, stands as a profound testament to his valour, sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of his men.”
Despite the setback, the military high command said the troops of Sector 3 overwhelmed the terrorists and maintained control of the location.
“We deeply mourn the loss of the exceptional officer and the other brave personnel who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.
“Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served,” the DHQ said.
