A devastating terrorist attack rocked a military camp in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State, resulting in the tragic deaths of five soldiers and one vigilante, with 11 others sustaining injuries.
The assailants, numbering over 200 and led by a notorious terrorism figure identified as Ado Aleiru, launched the assault armed with sophisticated weaponry.
According to a military internal memo obtained by Premium Times, the attack occurred around 2 pm on Sunday at the Yar Malamai village.
The violence also spilled over to nearby areas, with reports of civilian casualties, including the killing of members of a vigilante group, adding to the grim toll of the incident.
In response to the attack, security forces engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle that lasted over two hours, with air support eventually intervening to repel the assailants.
Despite the valiant efforts of the security personnel, casualties among both military and civilian ranks were incurred, prompting the withdrawal of remaining military personnel to a safer location.
Investigations into the incident have commenced, as authorities seek to unravel the circumstances leading to the deadly clash. Meanwhile, residents in the affected area are reportedly fleeing their homes in fear of further violence.
Efforts to obtain official statements from the military high command in Abuja and the Nigerian Army spokesperson were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.
The attack underscores the persistent security challenges faced by communities in Katsina State and other states in the North West region, as they grapple with the menace of banditry and terrorism.
While recent operations by security forces have resulted in the neutralization of numerous terrorists, the ongoing violence underscores the need for sustained efforts to safeguard lives and restore peace to the region.
