Introduction: A Deadly Assault on Military Forces
In a devastating attack by Boko Haram terrorists on a Forward Operating Base in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, at least six newly recruited soldiers were killed. The attack, which occurred late on Saturday, also led to the disappearance of several other soldiers. The insurgents set military vehicles and facilities, including a school that was being used as a temporary camp for the soldiers, on fire. Eyewitnesses described the assault as well-coordinated and noted that the soldiers appeared unprepared for the onslaught.
Eyewitness Account: A Coordinated and Devastating Attack
Umar Wakil, an eyewitness to the attack, described the insurgents as well-prepared and heavily armed. He stated that the attack seemed to be a revenge mission. “The attackers came with sophisticated weapons. They caught the soldiers off guard and carried out a coordinated attack,” Wakil said. He further confirmed that the victims were newly recruited soldiers, some of whom he was familiar with, and that a friend of his was killed during the raid. Wakil also emphasized that, despite passing through several routes, the attackers did not harm any civilians, although a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) was injured.
Another anonymous member of the Civilian Joint Task Force provided further details, confirming that the attack occurred shortly after 5 p.m. He said, “Everyone in the area sought shelter upon hearing the commotion and gunshots coming from the base.” By the morning, the military vehicles and the school, which had been used as a base, had been set on fire.
Military Response: Official Confirmation and Investigation
The attack has been officially confirmed by Major General Buba Edward, the Director of Defence Media Operations, who acknowledged that the military suffered setbacks during the operation. “An inquiry has been set up to confirm the details of what transpired, after which I will provide the details in due course,” Buba said. Despite several attempts, no official statement could be obtained from Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, the spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, as he did not respond to calls or messages.
Previous Military Operations and Boko Haram Activities
Last month, a joint military operation involving ground and air forces resulted in the killing of more than 10 Boko Haram insurgents in the Kukawa area. However, this latest attack serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by the terrorist group and the ongoing challenges faced by the Nigerian military in the region.
Conclusion: Rising Threats and Need for Vigilance
The attack on the Damboa Forward Operating Base is another grim chapter in the ongoing insurgency that has plagued the northeastern region of Nigeria for over a decade. The loss of young soldiers, many of them newly recruited, underscores the severity of the security challenges in Borno State. While the investigation into this particular attack is underway, the Nigerian military must continue to adapt its strategies and enhance its operations to counter the growing threat posed by Boko Haram and other insurgent groups in the region. The continuing violence also calls for increased vigilance from both the military and local communities to combat the insurgents effectively and ensure the safety of civilians.
