The Nigerian Army yesterday lost an officer and four soldiers in an ambush by Boko Haram while scores of the terrorists were killed in the shootout that ensued.

A statement issued in Abuja by Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, said the incident happened while the troops were responding to a distress call. His words: “A timely distress call has saved communities besieged by the terrorists in search of food around the Lake Chad area.

“The terrorists, who were said to be heavily armed, scampered for safety on sensing the approach of troops. The troops of the Multi National Joint Task Force on patrol of the area have so far recovered some arms and ammunition left behind by fleeing terrorists.

“Cordon and search of the area is continuing with a view to apprehending any of the terrorists that could be lurking around.

“Meanwhile, the assault on terrorists’ enclaves in Sambisa forests and surrounding locations is continuing. Operational activities around Wala, Gwoza, Pulka and environs have been intensified.

“Encounters resulting from air and land strikes and an ambush of troops on patrols in the area have resulted in the death of scores of terrorists and loss of five soldiers, including an officer.”

Meanwhile, the police in Taraba have confirmed that gunmen yesterday killed 10 people in Jibu village in Wukari Local Government Area of the state.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPO), ASP Joseph Kwaji, told newsmen in Jalingo that the suspected assailants also burnt more than 20 houses.

“Yes, I can confirm to you that at about 5a.m. today, a group of Jukun youths stormed Jibu village, opened fire at the inhabitants and killed 10 people,” he said, adding: “I can also confirm to you that 15 people are badly injured and about 20 houses were set ablaze.”

The PPRO disclosed that a joint patrol of Mobile Police and military had been deployed to intensify security in the area, appealing to people in the area to remain calm.

•Photo shows Nigerian troops on duty in Borno.

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