Troops conducting sustained counter-terrorism operations in Borno State have maintained operational momentum against insurgent elements, despite a suicide attack on a military convoy in the Timbuktu Triangle axis of the state.
Military sources confirmed that the incident occurred on Tuesday as troops were returning from a successful clearance operation that led to the dislodgement of several terrorist hideouts and the neutralisation considerable insurgent elements within the area.
During the movement, a vehicle laden with explosives was driven into the convoy by a suicide bomber, resulted in the loss of five soldiers, while several others sustained injuries.
Two senior officers, a Major and a Lieutenant, were reportedly affected in the attack.
Despite the incident, sources said the troops remained organised and mission-focused, preventing further disruption to the ongoing operation. The Commander of the operation, identified simply as Manga, was confirmed to be safe and continues to lead troops in the theatre.
A military source described the attack as a setback but emphasised that it has not weakened the resolve of troops on ground.
“Every operation comes with challenges. We lost five brave soldiers in this incident, but the mission continues. The troops remain committed and the offensive is ongoing,” the source said.
Armoured and logistics vehicles were damaged during the attack, according to security sources, but operational command and control were swiftly restored to ensure continuity of the mission.
The remains of the fallen soldiers have been evacuated to Maiduguri, while personnel who sustained injuries are receiving medical attention at designated military medical facilities.
The Timbuktu Triangle remained a critical but volatile operational zone in the North-East, where troops have continued to apply sustained pressure on terrorist elements to deny them freedom of movement and degrade their operational capability.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining offensive operations against all terrorist groups in the region, while honouring the sacrifices of personnel who continue to serve on the frontlines in defence of the nation.
