Brigadier-general, three soldiers killed as ISWAP fighters ambush troops in Borno

Fighters of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) have killed Dzarma Zirkusu, a brigadier-general, and three soldiers of the Nigerian army.

TheCable understands that ISWAP fighters on Saturday invaded Askira town in Askira Uba LGA of Borno state.

Following the attack, troops were said to have been mobilised to the area to tackle the terrorists.

A source told TheCable that the brigadier-general and the soldiers were ambushed while heading to Askira to provide support for the troops on the ground.

The incident was said to have happened a few kilometers from Askira town.

Onyema Nwachukwu, army spokesperson, confirmed the incident in a statement.

“In the fierce encounter which is still raging as at the time of filing this report, troops supported by the Air Component of OPHK have destroyed five A – Jet combat trucks, two A-29 artillery weapons, two dragon combat vehicles and nine gun trucks,” the statement reads.

“Sadly, a gallant senior officer brigadier-general Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they provided reinforcement in a counteroffensive against the terrorists, and successfully defended the location.

“The family of the senior officer and soldiers have been contacted. The Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya deeply commiserates with the families and relations of the fallen heroes.”