Boko Haram, ISWAP Launch 24-Hour Blitz — Four Military Bases Hit, Soldiers Killed, Gun Trucks Seized
By: IDNN Defence
In an audacious escalation of violence, Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents launched a coordinated blitz on four military bases across Borno State within a 24-hour period, killing soldiers, stealing gun trucks, and sparking widespread fear in communities already on edge.
Beginning late Monday night in Marte, insurgents overran the Forward Operating Base of the 153 Battalion. They reportedly entered the area on foot from multiple directions, ambushed Nigerian troops, and burned down military assets — including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. Seven soldiers were confirmed dead, with others feared missing.
Less than 13 hours later, Dikwa, Rann, and Gajiram came under siege in quick succession.
In Dikwa, insurgents launched a 1 a.m. offensive on Tuesday. According to military sources, the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Civilian Joint Task Force fighters repelled the attack after a fierce one-hour battle.
Meanwhile, in Rann — the headquarters of Kala Balge LGA — the 3 Battalion was hit around midnight with heavy artillery. Five soldiers died, six were injured, and three gun trucks were reportedly seized.
In Gajiram, Nganzai LGA, insurgents struck just past midnight but were driven back after an intense firefight.
Eyewitnesses in Marte described how insurgents looted food, weapons, and motorcycles, fleeing into remote forested zones near Chukungudu, Krenuwa, and Klabariya. A Civilian JTF source confirmed the chaos: “The attack caught the soldiers unaware… the base was completely torched.”
Zulum Speaks: “This Is A Partial Eclipse — But We Shall Overcome”
Reacting swiftly, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attacks and extended condolences to families of the fallen. Through his spokesman Dauda Iliya, Zulum reaffirmed his government’s commitment to security collaboration.
“These acts of terror are deeply condemnable… I am more determined than ever to support the military, security agencies, and our volunteer forces,” he said.
Zulum recalled his recent visit to Gwoza, where he engaged with the military and local communities, pledging intensified resilience efforts.
Casualty Breakdown and Insurgent Movement
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Marte: 7 soldiers killed, MRAPs and trucks burned
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Dikwa: Attack repelled with air support
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Rann: 5 soldiers dead, 6 injured, 3 gun trucks stolen
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Gajiram: Failed attack, light damage reported
Sources confirmed the attackers moved swiftly between targets, using guerrilla tactics and mobile units — a familiar but deadly strategy employed by ISWAP.
