Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a terrorist ambush after an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded along the Damboa–Kumala highway in Borno State.
According to security sources cited by counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the incident occurred at about 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, as troops, supported by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), escorted 63 civilian vehicles to Kumala.
The convoy reportedly encountered an IED on the main supply route linking Damboa, Bulabulin and Kumala. Moments after the explosion, suspected terrorists launched an ambush about two kilometres from the blast site.
The troops responded with sustained firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat and allowing the convoy to continue its movement without further disruption.
The report said the explosion damaged the tyres of two Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. However, no casualties were recorded among the troops or the civilians under escort.
After replacing the damaged tyres at the scene, the troops completed the escort mission to Kumala. They later escorted 71 civilian vehicles safely from Kumala back to Damboa.
Military sources quoted by Zagazola Makama said the operation reflects the continued efforts of Operation Hadin Kai to keep critical supply routes open and protect civilians travelling through conflict-affected areas despite persistent terrorist threats in the North-East.
