Boko Haram terrorists have made a desperate but costly attempt to attack Nigerian Army’s blocking position in Gwoza, the army said minutes ago. @The encounter which started at about 5.00am today lasted for almost two hours,@ Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, said.

According to Col. Usman, “Although details are still being collated, suffice to state that 7 terrorists were gunned down and the following weapons recovered; 1 Toyota Hilux vehicle, 11 AK-47 rifles, 1 Shilka Gun, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade Tube, 6 Hand Grenades. Others include several rounds of Shilka Gun and Machine Gun ammunitions.

“Presently, troops are on hot pursuit of the attackers into Sambisa forest with a view to eliminate all of them while the Nigerian Air Force is bombarding their locations.

“It will be recalled that the Boko Haram terrorists ability as a coherent fighting force has been degraded over time by troops through relentless attacks, patrols and aerial bambardments. “The desperate attack today was a failed attempt to project an image of strength. It is part of the last struggles of a dying evil.”

*File photo shows Nigerian troops returning fire.