The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of 17 soldiers during a fierce counter-terrorism operation in Bangi, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, where troops successfully repelled a major terrorist assault.
According to a statement issued by Apolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force and thwarted a planned large-scale attack by terrorists suspected to be fleeing from intensified military operations in Zamfara State.
The terrorists, numbering over 300, were intercepted in the Kwanar Dutse Forest as they attempted a nighttime movement toward the Kwatankoro Forest, a location believed to be their intended staging ground for further attacks or a temporary haven.
“Their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours,” the Army stated.
Following the ground confrontation, the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch launched precise airstrikes on the insurgents’ withdrawal routes, delivering heavy bombardments on identified enemy positions.
While the exact number of terrorist casualties remains unconfirmed, the statement disclosed that “multiple blood trails along their escape routes presumably indicate significant enemy losses.”
Despite the successful operation, the Army suffered a painful blow, with 17 soldiers losing their lives and 10 others sustaining various degrees of injuries.
The wounded personnel have been evacuated to military medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
In reaction to the loss, Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes.
He directed that the best medical care be provided to the injured troops and mandated relevant departments to ensure proper support is extended to the bereaved families.
“These gallant soldiers have performed their duties most admirably and made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our great country,” the Army Chief said.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all communities across the country, vowing to sustain pressure on terrorist elements and ensure the safety of lives and property.
“The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” the Army emphasised, noting its continued collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies, and the Nigerian people to defeat terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality.
The public was also urged to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
