Zainab Ali
Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully foiled an attempted ISWAP attack on the Forward Operating Base in Mairari, Borno State, dealing a strong blow to insurgent activities in the area.
According to security sources cited by counter insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the ISWAP fighters attempted to breach the military position on Friday but were swiftly repelled by alert troops stationed at the base. Several of the attackers were killed during the exchange, while others sustained injuries and fled.
As part of the counter operation against ISWAP, troops also neutralised two vehicle borne improvised explosive devices. The devices caused notable damage to sections of the road at two different points but were prevented from reaching the military facility.
The operation was carried out by troops of Sector 3 Stabilisation Operation, with support from the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Force, a special Nigeria Police crack team, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force. The coordinated response played a key role in stopping the ISWAP assault and securing the area.
During follow up clearance operations, soldiers recovered several items believed to belong to the terrorists. These included five motorcycles, two Android phones, AK 47 rifles, ammunition belts loaded with 165 rounds of PKT ammunition, five AK 47 magazines each fully loaded, and additional 7.62mm special rounds. Other recovered materials included blankets, a hand grenade, a combat boot, a flak jacket, plastic containers filled with engine oil, a stretcher, a wristwatch, a camel bag, spinners, and a motorcycle pump.
Importantly, no casualties were recorded among Nigerian troops during the encounter. The successful operation underscores ongoing efforts by the military and allied security forces to contain ISWAP threats and maintain pressure on insurgent groups operating in the North East.