Troops Repel Midnight Attack in Kukareta, Neutralise 24 Terrorists

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a coordinated terrorist attack on Kukareta in the North East, killing at least 24 insurgents and recovering a cache of weapons and ammunition.

The military said the attack occurred in the early hours of Thursday, beginning shortly after midnight and lasting until about 3:00 a.m., but was swiftly contained by troops under Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force.

According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the troops mounted a strong offensive defensive response that forced the attackers into a disorderly retreat.

During the operation, soldiers recovered 18 AK 47 rifles, three general purpose machine guns, two PKT automatic anti aircraft guns, three RPG tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, 18 AK 47 magazines, and large quantities of belted 7.62mm ammunition.

The military disclosed that two personnel were wounded in action but have since been stabilised, while one armoured tank sustained damage during the engagement.

Troops are currently conducting follow up operations along the withdrawal routes of the fleeing insurgents, where traces of blood and abandoned medical supplies were found, indicating further casualties.

The military said the operation underscores the resilience and combat readiness of troops in the ongoing counter insurgency campaign, adding that sustained pressure will be maintained to eliminate terrorist elements across the theatre of operations.