Pix: Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa

Troops of the 198 Special Forces Battalion, deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Katarko under Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, have successfully foiled a coordinated attack by Boko Haram terrorists in the early hours of 23 October 2025.

At about 0305 hours, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate the base using sophisticated weapons. However, the gallant troops, demonstrating superior firepower, tactical resilience, and unwavering determination, decisively repelled the attack, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.

Following the engagement, the troops pursued the fleeing terrorists up to Gazargana, forcing them to retreat in disarray and abandon several weapons and equipment.

During the encounter, no casualties were recorded among the troops. A total of 23 terrorists were neutralized, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds. Items recovered include four PKT machine guns, fourteen AK-47 rifles, one RPG tube, two RPG bombs, two 60mm commando mortar bombs, two hand grenades, three improvised explosive device (IED) materials, one damaged radio, and assorted ammunition of various calibres.

In the aftermath of the attack, the Commander, 402 Special Forces Brigade, Brigadier General Mohammed Bako Shehu, visited the troops at FOB Katarko to commend their bravery, discipline, and combat effectiveness. He also conveyed the commendations of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Commander 4 Special Forces Command, and the Theatre Commander. The Commander urged the troops to sustain their momentum, remain vigilant, and continue to dominate their area of operations to deny the terrorists any freedom of action.

As part of the visit, Brigadier General Shehu proceeded to the Level 2 Hospital in Damaturu, where he visited personnel who sustained minor injuries during recent operations. He praised their courage and reassured them of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering support for their speedy recovery and welfare.

The general security situation in the area remains stable, with troop morale high and ongoing operations aimed at clearing remnants of fleeing terrorists.