Military sources have disclosed that a commander of one of the Nigerian army’s battalions fighting insurgency in the north-east may have been killed.
WITHIN NIGERIA learnt that the commander, a lieutenant-colonel was feared killed by suspected Boko Haram insurgents who attacked a military base in Mainok, Borno state, on Sunday.
It was also learnt that thirteen soldiers were also reportedly killed in the attack.
According to sources, the troops were overpowered by the insurgents who came with “heavy weapons”.
One of the sources said “They had four MRAPs [armoured military vehicles], four gun trucks and other heavy machines,”.
“As I speak, the commanding officer has been hit, and some other soldiers.
“There was air support, but sadly, the air force missed its coordinates and couldn’t eliminate the insurgents.”
Another source also said “the troops have been dislodged from the camp as the insurgents are taking over.”
The insurgents, who were said to have stormed the base at about 2pm on Sunday, disguised in a military convoy and gained access into the premises before shooting sporadically and killing the soldiers.
The insurgents also razed down a police station and looted weapons at the military base.
A military source said the insurgents operated for about two hours before fleeing the scene of the attack.
When contacted, Mohammed Yerima, army spokesperson, said he will provide an update on the attack later.
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