Colonel, Seven Soldiers Perish in Suspected Boko Haram IED Attack in Borno

The Commanding Officer of the 242 Battalion, Monguno, Col. I.A. Mohammed, and at least ten soldiers have been killed by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) suspected to have been planted by insurgents in the Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State. Local sources reported that Colonel Mohammed lost his life while responding to a distress call on a reinforcement mission following an overnight assault on a military formation. The incident reportedly happened as the officer was heading to aid troops at a Forward Operating Base (FOB) that is connected to the 242 Battalion, after suspected insurgents launched a coordinated attack on Sunday night. His vehicle reportedly struck the IED as he was rushing to the scene.

This development occurs merely three days after a Brigade Commander of the 29 Task Force, Brig. Gen. Oseini Braimah, and at least 17 soldiers were reportedly killed by suspected terrorists during an attack on their command in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the attack. He stated that the incident took place in the late hours of April 12, when troops from Sector 3 of OPHK encountered an isolated terrorist attack on Charlie 13 location in Monguno. According to Uba, the terrorists were repelled after an exchange of intense gunfire, and the troops maintained control of the location.

"Regrettably, the Commanding Officer, while courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel," Lt. Col. Uba stated. He added that the officer's actions demonstrated "the highest traditions of military leadership; courage, selfless service, and leading from the front."

Lt. Col. Uba further emphasized that the commanding officer's willingness to advance towards his troops during the engagement, despite the evident dangers, serves as a "profound testament to his valour, sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of his men."

The OPHK expressed deep sorrow over the loss of this distinguished officer and the other brave personnel who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. The statement concluded, "Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served."