By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A deadly attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists struck Benisheikh town in Kaga LGA, Borno State, in the early hours of Thursday, killing Brigadier General O. O. Braimah while he led troops during the assault.
Coordinated Attacks Across Multiple Locations
The attacks began late Wednesday night. First, insurgents hit Pulka and Bakin Ruwa in Gwoza LGA around 10:30 p.m.
Then, at about 1 a.m., they launched another assault on Benisheikh and Ngamdu towns.
During the operation, the terrorists overran the 29 Task Force Brigade. They also destroyed several military vehicles and set equipment ablaze.
Military Base Overrun and Equipment Destroyed
Sources confirmed that the attackers stormed the military formation in large numbers.
They quickly overwhelmed troops and burned multiple military assets.
In addition, they carted away several vehicles after the attack.
However, troops responded with force. As a result, they killed scores of the insurgents during the exchange of fire.
Death of Brigade Commander Braimah
Brigadier General O. O. Braimah died while leading troops in combat.
His death marks a major loss for the Joint Task Force under Operation HADIN KAI.
Security sources described his actions as courageous during the intense battle.
Civilians, Security Personnel Among Casualties
The attack also claimed the lives of civilians and security operatives.
Members of the Civilian Joint Task Force were among the victims.
Meanwhile, several insurgents died during the clashes.
A local resident, Malam Lawal Benesheikh, confirmed the incident in a Facebook post. He expressed deep grief over the loss.
Shops Looted, Facilities Destroyed in Pulka
Earlier, insurgents attacked Pulka town and looted food items from shops.
They also destroyed machines and equipment belonging to a road construction company.
This development has worsened the humanitarian situation in the area.
Displaced Persons Face Renewed Hardship
Pulka currently hosts thousands of displaced persons from Ngoshe town.
These residents fled earlier attacks by Boko Haram about a month ago.
Now, the fresh violence has increased fear and uncertainty among them.
Stranded Travelers Caught in the Chaos
The situation in Benisheikh became more critical due to stranded travelers.
Many motorists had stopped overnight because of the routine closure of the Maiduguri-Damaturu Road.
As a result, several commercial vehicles were destroyed during the attack.
No Official Statement Yet
As of the time of filing this report, Operation HADIN KAI has not released an official statement.
Security agencies are yet to provide full details of the coordinated assaults.
