A statement by the Army Director of Public Relations, Brig. Gen Texas Chukwu, the Nigerian Army confirmed that there were casualties among troops of 233 Battalion who were ambushed by Boko Haram terrorists on Sarawa Road in Babbangida Local Government Area of Yobe State.
*************
"Troops of 233 Battalion deployed in Operation LAFIYA DOLE have neutralised scores of Boko Haram terrorists today, 21 July 2018 along Sasawa Road in Babbangida Local Government Area of Yobe State while countering an ambush staged by elements of Boko Haram terrorists.
The troops encountered the ambush during a fighting patrol to clear the general area of fleeing elements of Boko Haram terrorists who have been on rampage for food and logistics.
The gallant troops overpowered and neutralized the insurgents in the fire fight that ensued and successfully extricated themselves from the ambush.
Information have so far confirmed that the insurgents whose original mission was to attack and loot the near by Babbangida market for food and other logistics aborted the mission to stage the ambush on getting wind of the troops patrol.
Unfortunately, while fighting through the ambush, the troops recorded some casualties.
The situation has been brought under firm control by the troops and additional troops have been drafted to the area to reinforce the patrol troops.
The Air Task Force is on aerial surveillance of the general area to track down fleeing terrorists survivors .
The good people of Babbangida Local Government Area and Yobe state in general are urged not to panic but to remain calm and steadfast.
You are please requested to disseminate this information to the general public through your reputable medium.
Thank you for your kind support and cooperation.
TEXAS CHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations."