Troops kill seven insurgents in Borno village

Boko Haram last night said troops killed seven Boko Haram insurgents in Damasak, Borno State, after a fierce battle.

A statement by the Army spokesperson, Brig.-Gen Texas Chukwu, said troops recovered weapons and destroyed the terrorists’ vehicles. Those who fled were pursued.

The statement reads: “An earlier release by the Army on insurgents’ attack on the location of 145 Battalion at Damasak on Wednesday evening said a fierce battle is on between the troops and Boko Haram insurgents.

“The Army also issued a statement late yesterday night, to correct a publication by Sahara Reporters which said “Boko Haram captures Damasak 24 hours after Buratai’s visit”.

“The Army, therefore, issued a statement and informed the public that troops of 145 Battalion in Damasak, Borno State, are engaging Boko Haram terrorists and that the terrorists were subdued following a superior fire power. “The Army wishes to state that troops of 145 Battalion deployed in Operation Lafiya Dole at Damasak, Mobar Local Government Area of Borno State, on September 12, inflicted many casualties on the Boko Haram terrorists. Seven members of the sect were neutralised while others fled into the bush.

“Items recovered from them include two vehicles; one Anti-Aircraft Gun; four AK-47 rifles; seven magazines; two hand grenades;

one bayonet; 47 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 174 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.

“Seven soldiers sustained injuries in the attack and they have been evacuated to the military medical facility for treatment.”

Gen. Chukwu added that efforts are on to get the fleeing insurgents.