TheCable

The Nigeria army says its men are in “hot pursuit” of Boko Haram insurgents into Sambisa forest, after it successfully repelled the sect’s attack on Gwoza, Borno state.

According to Sani Usman, army spokesman, the insurgents launched the attack on Gwoza at 5am on Friday.

He said seven insurgents were killed in the encounter while some weapons were recovered from them.

“Boko Haram terrorists despite their obvious losses have made a desperate but costly attempt to attack Nigerian army’s blocking position early this morning in Gwoza. The encounter which started at about 5.00am today lasted for almost two hours,” Usman explained in a statement.

“Although details are still being collated, suffice to state that 7 terrorists were gunned down and the following weapons recovered; one Toyota Hilux vehicle, 11 AK-47 rifles, one shilka Gun, one rocket propelled grenade tube, six hand grenades. Others include several rounds of shilka gun and machine gun ammunitions.

“Presently, troops are on hot pursuit of the attackers into Sambisa forest with a view to eliminate all of them while the Nigeria air force is bombarding their locations.

“It will be recalled that the Boko Haram terrorists’ ability as a coherent fighting force has been degraded over time by troops through relentless attacks, patrols and aerial bambardments. The desperate attack today was a failed attempt to project an image of strength. It is part of the last struggles of a dying evil.”