Soldier dies as terrorists ambush troops in Sokoto

A soldier has been killed after troops repelled a terrorist ambush during a patrol in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto state.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the attack occurred around 5:30 pm on July 14 when troops attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Raka were on patrol near Zurmuku village.

Makama said the terrorists launched the ambush as the troops approached the village. The soldiers, however, responded with heavy gunfire and managed to fight off the attackers

.“During the encounter, one soldier sustained gunshot wounds and was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment. However, he later succumbed to his injuries,” Makama said.

“Military authorities are continuing operations in the area to track down the attackers and prevent further terrorist activities.”

The incident happened less than three weeks after another ambush in Isa LGA of Sokoto state reportedly claimed the lives of two soldiers and left three others injured.

The earlier attack was said to have taken place at about 10 pm on June 30 after troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, stationed at the FOB in Tidibale, responded to reports of a terrorist assault on Tagirke village.

After confronting the attackers and forcing them to retreat, the troops came under another ambush while withdrawing from the area.

During the withdrawal, one of the military gun trucks reportedly ran over an improvised explosive device (IED), causing casualties among the personnel.

The explosion killed two soldiers, while three others sustained injuries.