Many ISWAP fighters killed as battle with troops enters 8th hour

Many fighters of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been shot dead in an ongoing battle with the military.

Many fighters of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been shot dead in an ongoing battle with the military.

The terrorists had invaded Askira town in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno  State on Saturday morning.

A source had told Daily Trust that ISWAP fighters struck around 9am on Saturday.

Sadly, a Brigadier-General and some officers paid the ultimate price but both ground and air troops have been bombarding the terrorists.

In a statement on Saturday evening, Brigadier-General Onyema Nwachukwu, Army spokesman, confirmed that the battle was ongoing.

He said apart from killing the terrorists, troops had destroyed many of their gun trucks.

“Troops of Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralized several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a recent encounter in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.”

“In the fierce encounter which is still raging as at the time of filling this report, troops supported by the Air Component of OPHK have destroyed five A – Jet, two A-29, two Dragon combat vehicles and nine Gun Trucks.

“Sadly, a gallant senior officer Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they provided reinforcement in a counter offensive against the terrorists, and successfully defended the location. The family of the senior officer and soldiers have been contacted.

“The Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya deeply commiserates with the families and relations of the fallen heroes. He has also directed that the troops continue in the ferrocious counter offensive and hot pursuit to eliminate the remnant of the fleeing terrorists.”