Over 21 Boko Haram/ISWAP Insurgents Killed in Failed Ambush

By Bachirou Elhadji, BDO

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basis have repelled a coordinated attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, killing more than 21 insurgents and seizing a large cache of weapons and ammunition.

According to Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations at the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Command Headquarters, the failed ambush occurred on Friday, May 23, 2025, when the insurgents targeted the 25th Brigade of the Task Force in Damboa, Borno State.

“The valiant troops, reinforced by close air support provided by the air component, engaged the terrorists in a fierce and sustained exchange of fire that lasted for more than two hours,” said Captain Kovangiya.

Despite the intensity of the attack, the troops held their ground with discipline and tactical superiority, ultimately forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray.

Following the encounter, the army launched a clearing and exploitation operation, during which they recovered over 21 bodies of insurgents.

In addition to the casualties, troops recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition.

These included two general-purpose machine guns (GPMGs), three rocket-propelled grenade launchers (RPGs), a pump-action shotgun, and nine AK47 rifles.

Other items seized included three PKT ammunition belts, eight AK47 magazines, seven RPG bombs, two boxes of 12.7mm x 99mm ammunition, one and a half boxes of PKT ammunition, and 20 hand grenades (36-count).

However, the military also suffered minor casualties during the attack, and an explosion hit the ammunition depot, which was later brought under control.

Captain Kovangiya reiterated the army’s continued resolve to secure the region, which has been facing terrorist attacks for over a decade.

He also highlighted the importance of inter-service cooperation in achieving operational success.