A massive insurgent attack on a Nigerian security convoy left at least 50 Boko Haram fighters dead and seven government officers missing Tuesday, as the militant group demonstrated its continued ability to mount large-scale operations despite military pressure.
The Nigerian Civil Defence Corp, tasked with protecting national infrastructure, encountered approximately 200 Boko Haram fighters while monitoring power grid installations, according to agency spokesperson Babawale Afolabi. The resulting clash inflicted heavy casualties on the insurgent force, though several security personnel sustained injuries alongside those missing.
“A few others” from the security force were wounded in the encounter, Afolabi said, adding that search efforts are underway in surrounding bush areas to locate the missing officers.
The attack highlights Boko Haram’s persistent threat despite being weakened by military operations and internal conflicts during its 15-year insurgency. While the group traditionally operates in northeastern Nigeria, authorities report it has established cells in the predominantly Muslim Niger state, where this latest attack occurred.
In a separate incident underscoring the broader security challenges facing Nigerian forces, military officials confirmed five soldiers died Saturday in an insurgent attack in northeastern Borno state, the historical center of Boko Haram’s operations.
REUTERS
