BREAKING: Many soldiers feared killed as Boko Haram launches deadly attack on army base

An unknown number of Nigerian soldiers are feared dead after Boko Haram fighters overran a military base in Borno State during a midnight assault.

The insurgents targeted the 152 Task Force Battalion in Banki, a town in Bama Local Government Area, late Thursday, forcing troops to abandon their post.

The battalion, which plays a key role in Operation Hadin Kai—the counter-insurgency mission in the North-East—came under heavy fire as the attackers destroyed armoured tanks, set military vehicles ablaze, and carted away large quantities of ammunition, according to sources familiar with the incident.

Survivors from the attack reportedly fled into neighbouring Cameroon.

“Yesterday, 152 TF Battalion close to Banki town under Bama LGA was dislodge by Boko Haram terrorists, they were in charge of the base for several hours stealing military equipment and ammunition, as we are talking, casualties still unknown,” a source said.

Another source confirmed the assault, adding, “Yes, 152 Bn was attacked on Thursday. The base is close to Cameroon border, many of our men (soldiers) are still missing. However, casualties are still being counted and dozens of vehicles were destroyed in the attack.”

For nearly two decades, Nigeria has struggled against Boko Haram’s violent campaign in the North-East. Despite military assurances that the insurgents have been largely defeated, the group continues to stage deadly attacks.

The Islamist sect is believed to have caused more than 100,000 deaths and displaced millions across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Soldiers on the frontlines have often raised concerns over inadequate weaponry, alleging they are outgunned by Boko Haram’s fighters.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)