Multinational force thwarts extremist assault on Lake Chad, eliminates half-dozen militants linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP

Troops from the Multi National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Sector 2 Republic of Chad, have successfully repelled an attack by Boko Haram terrorists at the Fitine Island community in the Bol Region within the Lake Province, killing 6 insurgents in the process.

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The attack, which was launched under the cover of night, targeted the troops' location, which was deployed to protect the local fishing community, but the MNJTF troops were able to engage the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw with multiple casualties.

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According to Lieutenant Colonel Iweha Ikedichi, Acting Chief of Media and Public Information, the terrorists had infiltrated the community with the intention of taking out the military deployment, but were thwarted by the vigilant and vibrant MNJTF troops.

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Following the encounter, troops recovered the bodies of 6 neutralised terrorists, as well as 6 Automatic Kalashnikova model 47 (AK 47) rifles, 6 fully loaded magazines, one (1) Pulemyot Kalashnikova Tankovyy (PKT) General Purpose Machine Gun, and different calibres of ammunition, amongst other items.

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Two soldiers who were injured during the encounter were airlifted for medical attention, highlighting the intensity of the gunfight.

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The Force Commander MNJTF, Major General Saidu Tanko Audu, visited the scene and commended the troops for their vigilance, courage, and dexterity in repelling the attack.

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Major General Audu praised the troops for standing tough and courageous, despite the poor visibility under which the terrorists launched their attack, and noted that the terrorists were feeling the heat due to ongoing clearance operations across the MNJTF area of responsibility.

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The Force Commander referenced recent successes in Darak and Bargaram, under Sector 1 MNJTF Cameroon, where several scores of terrorists, including foreign mercenaries, were neutralised, and called on troops to yield no quarter in encounters with terrorists.

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Major General Audu pledged to support locations with logistics, combat enablers, and quick replenishment, and urged the community to be vigilant and point out intruders amongst them for onwards military action to enhance their safety.

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During his visit, the Force Commander also spoke with members of the community, urging them to complement the troops' sacrifice and efforts by providing useful, timely information to the troops.

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Additionally, Major General Audu toured a medical outpost and pledged support with drugs and other consumables to enhance their operations, demonstrating the MNJTF's commitment to supporting the local community.