The Defence Headquarters has confirmed a September 25 armed attack on the convoy of Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State.
The attack by terrorists from Boko Haram and Islamic State’s West Africa Province claimed the lives of 18 persons according to the Coordinator of Defence Media Operations Major General John Enenche.
Among the casualties were four soldiers, 10 Policemen and 4 civilians.
Giving an account of how the attack happened, Gen Enenche said the “convoy of the Borno State Civilians Relocation Committee comprising Armed Forces of Nigeria, Nigeria Police Force and Civilian Joint Task Force was ambushed by members of the BHT/ISWAP at Barwati village on 25 of September 2020.
“The attack/ambush was however successfully repelled by the gallant troops. Sadly, a total of 18 lives including 4 soldiers, 10 Policemen and 4 civilians were lost during the sad incident”.
According to him, troops on hot pursuit of the insurgents successfully recovered three vehicles.
He said, “Two of the vehicles belonging to the Nigeria Police that were earlier carted away by the terrorists during the attack. Similarly, one BHT gun truck was also captured.
“The casualties recorded were as a result of the explosion from the multiple Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted on the road by the terrorists.
“In a bid to prevent further attacks, he said, The Nigerian Army has since deployed bomb and IED disposal teams to ensure effective route scanning and clearance”.
Recall that on July 29th, the Governor’s convoy was attacked by gunmen near the town of Baga with a few casualties recorded.
