- According to the memo, the onslaught against the military camp situated at the village of Yar Malamai was led by a terrorism kingpin, Ado Aleiru
At least five soldiers lost their lives when terrorists attacked a military camp in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Eleven others were injured during the deadly attack which happened on Sunday.
A military internal memo cited by Premium Times disclosed that over 200 terrorists armed with sophisticated weapons attacked the base at about 2pm on Sunday.
According to the memo, the onslaught against the military camp situated at the village of Yar Malamai was led by a terrorism kingpin, Ado Aleiru.
It stated that the troops engaged the terrorists in a gun battle that lasted for hours, adding that the terrorists also suffered heavy casualties.
The memo stated: “Terrorist attack on military camp causing grievous hurt and death of military personnel.
“On receipt of the information, Supol Faskari, proceeded to the scene with his team and engaged the bandits on a gun battle as reinforcement (of) Air Components were also called upon and responded promptly.
“The battle lasted for over two hours after intervention from the Air Force; sadly five soldiers and one vigilante by name Aliyu Tukur, 30 years (old), of the same address, lost their lives.
“Eleven soldiers sustained different degrees of gunshot injuries, all the injured were rushed to hospital by the military, all the corpses were also removed.
“The attack led to the withdrawal of all the remaining military personnel from the village to a nearby camp 25 kilometres away situated at Ali Kere village due to heavy casualty recorded.
“The bandits also suffered heavy casualties but have succeeded in removing them away from the scene (sic). Residents of the area are currently migrating
“Investigation has commenced further development would be communicated above for your information, please.”
A source familiar with the matter disclosed that the incident was a clash between the soldiers and the terrorists near a military camp in Faskari Local Government Area.
He said the soldiers were escorting residents of Yarmalamai village, “who were unable to move without military escort due to security concerns.”
“Suspecting each other as threats, both groups engaged in gunfire, resulting in casualties. Tragically, five soldiers lost their lives and others sustained injuries.
“The following day, the terrorists returned to Yarmalamai village, setting houses ablaze and causing casualties, though the exact number is yet to be confirmed,” Daily Trust quoted the source saying.