Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 101 Special Forces Battalion in Kukawa, Borno State, have repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province ISWAP terrorists.

The attack occurred on Tuesday night, with the terrorists attempting to overrun the military position from four different directions.

Security sources said the assault lasted from about 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., during which troops, supported by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, engaged the attackers in a prolonged exchange of fire.

The troops successfully defeated the terrorists and forced them to withdraw from the area.

The sources said more than 25 ISWAP fighters were neutralised, while 14 bodies had so far been recovered from the battlefield.

Troops also recovered a cache of arms and ammunition abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, including six AK-47 rifles.

However, the military also recorded casualties during the engagement, with some soldiers reportedly killed and others wounded.

The Brigade Commander subsequently moved to the area to coordinate the adjustment of the defensive posture, replenishment of troops and equipment, and further exploitation of the battlefield.

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, confirmed that terrorists attacked the military base but said they were defeated and suffered heavy casualties.

The development comes amid continued military operations aimed at preventing terrorist groups from gaining ground in the Kukawa axis and other parts of the Lake Chad region.

Further details on the military casualties, recovered weapons and the outcome of ongoing exploitation operations are expected as the assessment continues.