Nigerian troops have successfully repelled an attempted attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mairari in Borno State, neutralising two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and recovering weapons and other materials during a follow-up operation.
Security sources disclosed on Saturday that the terrorists launched an assault on the base in the early hours of Friday but were decisively repelled, suffering casualties in the process. Several insurgents were reportedly killed, while others sustained injuries, with surviving fighters later evacuating their dead and wounded.
According to the sources, troops of Sector 3 Stabilisation Operation, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Force, Nigeria Police tactical units and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, conducted an exploitation operation at about 6:10 a.m. after the failed attack.
During the operation, troops discovered terrorist corpses and recovered various items, including five motorcycles, two Android phones, AK-47 rifles, a belt containing 165 rounds of PKT ammunition, five AK-47 magazines loaded with 30 rounds each, and 59 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Other items recovered included blankets, a hand grenade, a combat boot, a flak jacket, plastic containers with engine oil, a stretcher, a wristwatch, a camel bag, spinners and a motorcycle pump.
The sources added that two VBIEDs deployed by the terrorists were destroyed using SHILKA firepower, leaving significant damage on two sections of the road near the base.
No casualties were recorded among the troops, who were said to have maintained control of the area and continued aggressive patrols to prevent further threats and ensure security around the base.
