Seven officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are reportedly missing while several others were left injured in an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
The attack occurred on Monday, in the Farin-Kasa area of Chukun Local Government Area, Kaduna State when the operatives were inspecting the National Grid installation in Shiroro, Niger State.
According to the NSCDC spokesperson, DCC Afolabi Babawale, who confirmed the attack in a statement on Tuesday, the attacked team comprised of nine officers and 71 other ranks.
Giving details on the incident, Babawale revealed that that the team was attacked when they were mobilised in response to the recent attacks on power lines which have caused incessant blackout in northern Nigeria.
He further noted that it was during the patrol in the region that the team was attacked, adding that though some were injured during the attack, they were able to fight back valiantly, neutralising over 50 insurgents.
The statement partly reads, “As they patrolled vulnerable areas, they encountered stranded expatriates near Dagwachi Village and allowed them to join the convoy for safety. Unbeknownst to the team, over 200 armed Boko Haram militants had laid a deadly ambush from a hilltop, ready to unleash a torrent of gunfire on the unsuspecting convoy.
“Determined and resourceful, the NSCDC operatives fought back valiantly, managing to neutralise over 50 insurgents during the exchange. However, the chaos left seven officers unaccounted for, prompting an urgent search in the bush for their whereabouts. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical treatment.”
Speaking on the incident, the NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi, condemned the attack, labelling it as a cowardly act against personnel committed to the nation’s defence.
He further pledged the commitment of the NSCDC to ensure that the missing officials are found.
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