TheCable

The Nigerian army says many insurgents were killed in Friday’s attack at Magumeri town in Borno state.

The Islamic State (IS) had claimed responsibility for the attack, saying its fighters killed 10 soldiers and burnt a military base.

But in a statement on Sunday, Ezindu Idima, deputy director, army public relations, sector 3 Operation Lafiya Dole, said only five soldiers were killed.

He said the insurgents invaded the town in large numbers to loot food items and other valuables.

Idima said after the insurgents attacked the military base, they engaged the soldiers in a fierce gun battle.

However, he said the troops overpowered the fighters, killed many, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The operation spokesman said the army is in pursuit of the fleeing insurgents.

“During the encounter, the terrorists suffered heavy losses/ casualty,” Idima said.

“Unfortunately, five soldiers paid the supreme price. Troops have continued to intensify vigilance and a high level of alertness to deny the bandits freedom of action.”

Idima said Olufemi Akinjobi, commander sector 3 of the operation, praised the gallantry of the soldiers.

“He charged them to maintain the momentum and the successes achieved so far to ensure the final defeat of the terrorists,” Idima said.