The troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army deployed at Allawa and Erena, while on a fighting patrol to Karaga village in Shiroro local government area of Niger state, have eliminated several terrorists and captured some of their equipment.
A statement by the Director, Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said the gallant troops had fought through an ambush staged by the terrorists on 19th April 2024.
Sadly, the troops suffered a temporary setback as 6 personnel comprising 2 officers and 4 soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the encounter.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Major General Landers Saraso has, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, sympathised with the families of the deceased personnel and promised them that the unfortunate setback will be avenged by the troops.
He said the troops are currently trailing some of the terrorists who survived and fled after the encounter. He encouraged the good people of the state to go about their legitimate and lawful activities and reassured them that the Nigerian Army and other security agencies will ensure their protection at all times.
In line with customs and traditions, the Nigerian Army authority said it has contacted the next of kin's of the fallen heroes, while burial has been conducted for the deceased Muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members.
The Chief of Army Staff was represented at the burial which took place at Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery by the Commander Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Major General Kelvin Aligbe.
The Deputy Governor, representative of the COAS, GOC and other senior officers also visited the 2 wounded soldiers receiving medical attention at the Military Hospital and subsequently paid condolence visit to the families of the deceased.
The Nigerian Army urges the general public, particularly the good people of Niger and contiguous states to continue to avail the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with actionable and timely information to enhance the operations of the troops.
