At least 20 soldiers, including a serving army Colonel, have been killed and an unspecified number wounded in an ambush when Islamic State of West Africa Province terrorists made attempts on Monguno town on Sunday night, sources said.
The attack came as the military prepared a renewed offensive against the terrorists, who have recently inflicted severe injuries on the Nigerian operation.
According to a security source, a coordinated armed attack occurred in Monguno town between 11:02 hrs and 11:18 hrs as predicted. The ambush occurred during a reinforcement effort. Unfortunately, the Colonel lost his life along with other soldiers.
Read also: How Army General, others were killed as terrorists invade military base
The source added that the attack was carried out from multiple locations, indicating a strategic, well-planned infiltration by the armed group. Affected areas include the Church vicinity, GGSS axis, and extending towards C:3 and C:7. Heavy gunfire (RVG) was reported throughout the engagement.
The affected colonel and his men were attached to the 242 Battalion in Borno.
“The Colonel was reportedly killed last night in an IED incident while reinforcing troops in Monguno. Four soldiers were also killed when a fighter jet, in repelling an ISWAP attack, hit the vehicle laden bombed they ran in,” the source said.
The source added as a result of the attack, fire outbreaks were recorded in Gana Ali and around the Church area behind the IOM Guest Inn, likely caused by an RPG.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
