Heavy gunfire erupts as soldiers confront insurgents attempting to infiltrate Borno community
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have engaged suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) after the insurgents attempted to launch a late-night attack on Konduga in northeastern Nigeria.
Security sources said the fighters tried to infiltrate the town around 11:15 p.m. on Thursday, triggering a swift response from soldiers deployed in the area.
Residents reported hearing sustained gunfire as troops confronted the attackers in what witnesses described as a fierce exchange.
“There have been heavy sounds of gunshots as the soldiers engage the terrorists. We are hearing the sounds around Dalori,” a local source said.
Strategic Frontline Community
Konduga, located about 35 kilometres from Maiduguri, remains a critical frontline community in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign against extremist groups in the region.
The town sits close to the notorious Sambisa Forest, a long-time stronghold for insurgents linked to Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province.
Because of its strategic position, the area has frequently witnessed attempted attacks by insurgent fighters seeking to breach military defences and destabilise nearby communities.
Gunfire Ongoing as Troops Push Back Attackers
At the time of filing this report, security sources said the exchange of gunfire was still ongoing, with troops continuing efforts to repel the attackers and secure the area.
Military authorities have yet to release an official statement on the incident.
