Troops Repel Terrorist Ambush After IED Explosion on Damboa–Kumala Road
By Zagazola Makama
Combined troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a terrorist ambush after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated along the Damboa–Kumala road in Damboa Local Government Area.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 1:00 p.m. on July 4 as troops of 19 Battalion (Mechanised), 25 Brigade Garrison, supported by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), were escorting 63 civilian vehicles to Kumala.
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According to the sources, the convoy encountered an IED along the Main Supply Route (MSR) between Damboa, Bulabulin and Kumala. Shortly after the explosion, suspected terrorists launched an ambush about two kilometres from the incident point.
The troops responded with superior firepower, successfully fighting through the ambush and forcing the attackers to retreat.
Although two Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle tyres were damaged by the explosion, no casualties were recorded among the troops or the escorted civilians.
The damaged tyres were replaced at the scene, after which the troops completed the mission and safely escorted 71 civilian vehicles on the return journey from Kumala to Damboa.
Military sources said the successful operation underscores the determination of Operation HADIN KAI troops to keep critical supply routes open and ensure the safe movement of civilians despite persistent terrorist threats in the North-East.