Troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army deployed at Allawa and Erena, while on a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State had an encounter in an ambush staged by terrorists on 19 April 2024. Troops gallantly fought through the ambush and eliminated several of the terrorists as well as captured some of their equipment.
Sadly, the troops suffered a temporary setback as 6 personnel comprising 2 officers and 4 soldiers paid the supreme price. The General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj Gen Landers Saraso has on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff sympathized with the families of the deceased personnel and promised them that the unfortunate setback will be avenged by the troops. He said the troops are currently trailing some of the terrorists who survived and fled after the encounter. He urged the good people of the State to go about their legitimate and lawful activities and reassured them that the Nigerian Army and other security agencies will ensure their protection at all times.
In line with customs and traditions, the Nigerian Army authority has contacted the Next of Kins of the fallen heroes, while burial has been conducted for the deceased muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members. The Chief of Army Staff was represented at the burial which took place at Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery by the Commander Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Maj Gen Kelvin Aligbe.
The Deputy Governor, representative of the COAS, GOC and other senior officers also visited the 2 wounded soldiers receiving medical attention at the Military Hospital and subsequently paid condolence visit to the families of the deceased.
We urge the general public, particularly the good people of Niger and contiguous states to continue to avail the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with actionable and timely information to enhance the operations of the troops.