Soldiers, Civilian Killed As Boko Haram Launches Night Attack in Borno

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Boko Haram insurgents killed Forward Operations Base commander Major IU Mairiga, three soldiers, and a hunter during a night attack on Mayanti in Bama LGA, Borno State.

Security sources said Major Mairiga fought bravely, neutralising several insurgents before being overpowered after some soldiers fled. Troops later recovered RPGs, anti-aircraft weapons, PKT machine guns, and insurgent corpses at the scene.

Three civilians doing reconstruction work were wounded, and military vehicles and equipment were set ablaze. Major Mairiga had been deployed to the base less than four months ago after a special promotion.

The Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) confirmed repelling coordinated attacks on Mayanti, Gajigana, and Gajiram between February 28 and March 1, killing scores of insurgents and seizing heavy weapons.