Commanding officer killed as terrorists attack military base in Borno
Boko Haram terrorists invaded a military camp in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State on Monday, killing a commanding officer and several other soldiers.
The terrorists reportedly stormed the military base in the early hours of Monday, burnt down the base, and carted away ammunition cartels.
It was gathered that the officer identified as Lieutenant Colonel Umar Farouq, who was in charge of the military operations in Kukawa, was wounded in action and died while being conveyed to the state capital for treatment.
Army spokesperson Anele Appolonia did not respond to a request for comment on the attack and the steps the military has taken to restore order in the area. Also, when contacted by Peoples Gazette, state police spokesperson Daso Kenneth promised to respond later.
A statement by HK Yarayi, the council leader in the community, said the state governor, Babagana Zulum, visited Kukawa town alongside the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) to assess the situation.
Mr Zulum, represented by Karta Maina Lawan, the member representing the Kukawa constituency at the Borno State House of Assembly, restated commitment to the safety, recovery, and well-being of the people of the area.
“The loss of Lt. Col. Umar Farouq, commanding officer of the 101 Battalion Kukawa, is extremely painful and deeply felt by the entire community. His sacrifice and dedication to protecting the people will always be remembered. Their presence demonstrates continued concern and support for the community during this difficult time,” the statement said.
Several military camps have come under coordinated attacks by ISWAP terrorists in recent months. The latest incident came barely 72 hours after the insurgents killed a senior officer identified as Lieutenant Colonel SI Iliyasu, a commanding officer of 222 Battalion, in the Konduga area of the state.
Soldiersand civilians were killed in Gwoza after Boko Haram insurgents raided a military base and attacked the community last Thursday.
On Friday, the terrorists also invaded four military bases in Konduga, Mainok, Jakana, and Marte towns in Borno State, killing several soldiers while burning military ammunition in the attack.
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