The Nigerian Army Thursday said Boko Haram elements attacked troops involved in the clearance operation in Sambisa forest.
The Army, in a statement signed by its spokesman, Col. Sani Usman, said the attack, which was repelled, resulted in the death of many of the fighters.
It added that troops of 7 Division, who were also on clearance operation, rescued 42 hostages.
The statement said on “Wednesday 4th May 2016 at about 7.00pm in the evening, Boko Haram terrorists attacked our troops involved in the clearance and rescue operations in Sambisa forest nicknamed “Operation CRACKDOWN”, while on harbour. The terrorists who came in 5 Toyota Hilux vehicles mounted with Anti-Aircraft guns which they fired along with 81mm mortar.
“The battle ready troops rose to the occasion and repelled the attack and pursued the terrorists that withdrew in disarray towards the river line of Izza-Mainyakare axis.
“The attack lasted for about 40 minutes without any casualty on our troops while an unconfirmed number of Boko Haram terrorists were killed. The troops recovered an 81mm mortar tube from the terrorists. The troops maintain highest level alertness and vigilance at the harbour area.”
