… gunmen killed; money, motorcycles, weapons, others recovered
As the battle to rid the country of terrorists continue to gather momentum, a Nigerian Army General, Bemgha Koughna has escaped an ambush by gunmen believed to be members of the Lakurawa terrorists group. Security sources said the plot was to kidnap the Army General.
According to media reports, what began as a routine operational visit to frontline troops turned into a fierce life-and-death firefight when terrorists sprang a carefully laid ambush on the convoy of the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Bemgha Koughna, deep inside the volatile forests near Mayama Hill.
It was gathered that the attackers’ plan collapsed within minutes.
It was learnt that instead of a high-profile military casualty, the insurgents left bodies, weapons and cash behind as soldiers counter-attacked with overwhelming force, killing five (5) of the terrorists on the spot.
Military sources further disclosed that the convoy commander was on a mission to inspect troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA when gunmen believed to belong to the Lakurawa terrorist group opened heavy fire from concealed positions along the rugged terrain.
The sudden barrage was designed to cripple the convoy and eliminate senior leadership. Instead, the soldiers instantly formed defensive positions.
Eyewitness accounts described a thunderous exchange of gunfire that echoed across the hills as the GOC personally coordinated the counter-attack.
Within moments, troops gained fire superiority and forced the attackers into retreat. Five terrorists were confirmed neutralized during the encounter.
After repelling the ambush, troops swept the battlefield and uncovered what officials described as a “mobile assault logistics base” abandoned by fleeing fighters.
The following items, according to reports were discovered: One OJC machine gun, One PKT machine gun, Two AK-47 rifles and Four AK-47 magazines.
Others were Bandolier of PKT ammunition, several rounds of 12.7mm
ammunition, cash sum of ₦840,000 hidden in a camel bag, two mobile phones and five motorcycles.
Security analysts say the motorcycles suggest the terrorists intended a rapid escape after striking the convoy.
Troops have since established dominance across the surrounding forest to prevent regrouping attacks, while intelligence teams analyse recovered phones and documents.
Military authorities say the foiled attack delivers a decisive psychological blow to armed groups operating in the North-West corridor.
The operation, according to officials, demonstrates the Army’s readiness to confront insurgents directly even when top commanders are targeted.
