How terrorists ambushed, killed 22 soldiers, 7 policemen and others
Terrorists have reportedly killed at least 22 soldiers and seven police operatives among others in an ambush in Taraba state. The assailants also destroyed several properties.
The slain soldiers are said to belong to the 45 Battalion, Bida, and were on a rescue mission when the terrorists struck.
It is believed that the terrorists had prior information on the movement of the security operatives.
The soldiers were part of a reinforcement team being sent to rescue the Chinese nationals operating at a mining site at Ajata-Aboki in Gurmana Ward of Shiroro Local Government Area of the state.
The terrorists had invaded the site, mowing seven mobile policemen on guard and some soldiers at a nearby Erena community.
It is said that the gunmen on motorcycle numbered 300, carrying sophisticated weapons. The terrorists reportedly shot dead a villager for refusing to them to the mining site.
A top security operative with knowledge of the incident allegedly said, “The battalion in Bida was specifically created to handle the deteriorating security situation around Shiroro and Zungero axis.
Another security source told the newspaper that the terrorists “are believed to be Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters who were not initially domiciled in the area and who are not also Nigerians.” They are said to have long hair and pierced noses, giving the indication they might be non-Nigerians.
- Daily Trust
