A yet-to-be-confirmed number of Nigerian soldiers have been killed after Boko Haram terrorists attacked a military base in Banki town, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack, which took place around midnight on Thursday, targeted the 152 Task Force Battalion, an operational unit of the Nigerian Army actively involved in the counter-insurgency Operation Hadin Kai in the North East.
Sources revealed that the terrorists overran the base, dislodging troops and seizing control for several hours. During the assault, armoured tanks and military vehicles were set ablaze while large quantities of ammunition were looted. Some surviving soldiers reportedly fled across the border into Cameroon.
“Yesterday, 152 TF Battalion close to Banki town under Bama LGA was dislodged by Boko Haram terrorists, they were in charge of the base for several hours stealing military equipment and ammunition, as we are talking, casualties still unknown,” a source said. Another source added, “Yes, 152 Bn was attacked on Thursday. The base is close to Cameroon border, many of our men (soldiers) are still missing. However, casualties are still being counted and dozens of vehicles were destroyed in the attack.”
The North East has remained the epicentre of Boko Haram’s insurgency for nearly two decades, with Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States bearing the brunt of killings and displacement. Despite repeated military assurances that the group has been largely defeated, attacks continue to claim lives and destroy communities.
Boko Haram’s campaign has led to more than 100,000 deaths and displaced millions, leaving the region in a prolonged humanitarian crisis. Nigerian soldiers have on several occasions expressed frustration over poor weaponry, accusing their superiors of exposing them to an enemy better armed and equipped.
