Nine Nigerian soldiers were killed in a complex ambush in the northeast on Monday, security sources said. The attack highlights the ongoing threat from militant groups in the region.
The soldiers died when their convoy hit a landmine and was fired upon by terrorists. The attack occurred near Bindundul village, about 12 miles from Kareto. Two security sources from the Damasak brigade confirmed the incident. The soldiers were traveling from Maiduguri to Damasak at the time.
The terrorists planted a mine that detonated under the convoy. A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Abba Kaka Tuja, said an armored vehicle was destroyed in the blast. He was involved in the rescue operation. Sporadic gunfire followed the explosion, according to his account.
Five other soldiers were seriously injured in the attack. The area is known as a zone where ISWAP fighters operate. ISWAP stands for Islamic State West Africa Province. The group is a faction linked to Daesh, also known as ISIS. Security analysts say the group often sets up checkpoints in the region.
The soldiers were heading to Damasak, the headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area. This area has seen repeated attacks by militant groups. The Nigerian military has been engaged in a long conflict against such groups. The conflict has lasted for over a decade. It has caused widespread displacement and humanitarian crisis.
Monday's attack is one of the deadliest against Nigerian forces in recent weeks. It underscores the persistent insecurity in Nigeria's northeast. Military convoys are frequently targeted with improvised explosive devices. These complex ambushes have claimed many lives over the years.
Security forces have recovered the bodies of the deceased soldiers. The injured troops were evacuated for medical treatment. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. However, the method matches previous operations by ISWAP fighters.
The Nigerian defense headquarters has not yet issued an official statement. Local authorities in Borno State have also not commented publicly. Attacks on military targets often delay official confirmation from the government.
The conflict in northeast Nigeria has killed tens of thousands of people. It has also forced more than two million people to flee their homes. Despite military campaigns, militant groups remain active. They continue to launch attacks on both military and civilian targets.