Boko Haram Kills 4 Soldiers in Coordinated Attacks on Military Bases in Borno
Insurgents Target Rann, Gajiram, and Dikwa in Renewed Onslaught
Suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched coordinated attacks on three military bases in Rann, Gajiram, and Dikwa, Borno State, killing at least four soldiers. Security sources confirmed the assaults occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, with insurgents suffering heavy losses in Dikwa and Gajiram where troops repelled their advances.
Rann Attack Leaves Four Soldiers Dead
The attack on the military formation in Rann resulted in four soldiers killed and six others injured. A security source revealed, “We lost four soldiers while four sustained gunshot wounds. They also set ablaze an MRAP, a gun truck, and a Russian-made T-72 tank.” Residents reported the insurgents invaded around midnight, engaging troops for hours before overrunning the base.
Video credit to: RootsTV Nigeria
Military Repels Attacks in Gajiram and Dikwa
While the Rann assault succeeded partially, troops successfully repelled attacks in Gajiram and Dikwa. A soldier warned, “The ISWAP attack on Gajiram indicates their target is to take over Monguno. They may be trying to isolate the town before launching a major attack.” The Army Public Relations Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Reuben Kovangiya, confirmed the incidents, stating the military remains committed to defeating terrorism in the region.
Growing Concerns Over Insurgent Tactics
Security experts raise alarms about insurgents’ evolving strategies:
- Increased use of drones for surveillance
- Targeting military bases to seize weapons
- Coordinated multi-front attacks
Dr. Kamar Hamza, a security expert, noted: “Insurgents are now targeting barracks to acquire weapons as traditional arms smuggling routes become harder to access. This requires intelligence-driven responses rather than relying solely on conventional military operations.”
Government and Military Response
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attacks and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting security forces. Meanwhile, the Senate called for:
- Deployment of more troops to the Northeast
- Provision of state-of-the-art equipment
- Review of military strategies
Broader Regional Security Challenges
The attacks highlight ongoing security challenges in the region:
- Persistent threats along border areas
- Difficulties in securing remote communities
- Humanitarian access complications
Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa urged troops to remain vigilant, stating: “The battle you are fighting is not just one. Don’t sleep, because your enemies are not sleeping.” He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in intelligence gathering.
Recent Abductions in Yobe
In related developments, suspected Boko Haram terrorists abducted a retired immigration officer and two others in Yobe State. The victims were kidnapped while traveling on the Biu-Damaturu road, an area known for insurgent activity.
Full credit to the original publisher: Daily Trust