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A monitoring team from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) became the target of an ambush by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, who launched the attack with the apparent aim of sabotaging ongoing security operations.
This act of aggression is part of the broader struggle for control over territories vulnerable to insurgency in northern Nigeria.
The ambush took place on Monday in the Farin-Kasa region of Chukun Local Government Area in Kaduna State, as the operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were conducting an inspection of the National Grid installation in Shiroro, located in Niger State. This attack, strategically timed, occurred while the team was fulfilling their critical security duties.
According to a statement from NSCDC spokesperson DCC Afolabi Babawale, the operation involved a team of nine officers and 71 other ranks, who were swiftly deployed in response to recent sabotage of power lines. These attacks had caused widespread power outages across the northern part of Nigeria, drawing attention to the need for enhanced protection of the country’s energy assets.
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“As they patrolled vulnerable areas, they encountered stranded expatriates near Dagwachi Village and allowed them to join the convoy for safety. Unbeknownst to the team, over 200 armed Boko Haram militants had laid a deadly ambush from a hilltop, ready to unleash a torrent of gunfire on the unsuspecting convoy,” he said.
“Determined and resourceful, the NSCDC operatives fought back valiantly, managing to neutralise over 50 insurgents during the exchange. However, the chaos left seven officers unaccounted for, prompting an urgent search in the bush for their whereabouts. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical treatment.”
NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi condemned the attack in the strongest terms, labeling it as a cowardly strike against personnel who serve with unwavering dedication to the nation’s defense. He expressed outrage at the audacity of such an assault on those responsible for maintaining security.
He commended the bravery and resolve demonstrated by the operatives, highlighting the Corps’ steadfast dedication to protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure and vital assets, especially in the face of escalating security threats across the country.
