BORNO: Troops repel Boko Haram attack, chase insurgents out of Maiduguri

CALAMITY was averted yesterday evening when troops of ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ successfully repelled Boko Haram insurgents’ attack in Maiduguri, chasing them out of the city.

The insurgents had stormed the Molai and Jiddari areas of the state capital at about 7pm just as Muslim faithful were breaking their Ramadan fast, setting houses on fire before the troops moved in and engaged them in a fierce gun battle, according to residents.

Eyewitnesses said the exchange of gunshots lasted for hours before the gallant soldiers were able to overcome the terrorists who had to flee from the town.

An officer from the 7 Division located in Maiduguri, also said he shooting involved the use of heavy artillery to overcome the insurgents who were heavily armed with long-range explosives and gun tanks.

Though no casualty figure could be ascertained, Military helicopters were seen hovering over the town and the surroundings while ambulances were also sighted as the Army carried out a mop-up operation to make sure the insurgents did not have any hiding place in the town and to evacuate any injured soldier or civilian.