Troops ambush, inflict, casualties on terrorists in Niger State

Troops of the 1 Division Nigerian Army, stationed at Allawa and Erena, encountered an ambush by terrorists while conducting a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on April 19, 2024.
In a statement, Director Army Public Relations Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said despite the ambush, the troops displayed gallantry, successfully fighting through the encounter and eliminating several terrorists while capturing some of their equipment.
He said the operation resulted in a temporary setback for the troops, with six personnel, including two officers and four soldiers, making the ultimate sacrifice. Major General Landers Saraso, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander of Operation Whirl Punch, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen personnel on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff. He assured them that the sacrifice of the fallen heroes would not be in vain and emphasized ongoing efforts to track down surviving terrorists who fled the scene.
In accordance with military customs, the Nigerian Army promptly notified the Next of Kin of the deceased soldiers, and Muslim personnel received burial rites with the consent and approval of their families. The Chief of Army Staff was represented at the burial ceremony, held at the Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery, by Major General Kelvin Aligbe, the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
A delegation led by the Deputy Governor, along with representatives of the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding, and other senior officers, visited the two wounded soldiers receiving medical treatment at the Military Hospital. Additionally, they paid condolence visits to the families of the fallen heroes, offering support and solidarity during this difficult time.
The public, especially residents of Niger and neighboring states, are urged to collaborate with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies by providing timely and actionable information to bolster troop operations against terrorism.