Suspected Boko Haram insurgents ambushed a monitoring team from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Farin-Kasa area of Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
The attack occurred on Monday while the team was inspecting the National Grid installation in Shiroro, Niger State.
NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale revealed that they had mobilized the team of nine officers and 71 other ranks to respond to recent attacks on power lines, which had caused a blackout in northern Nigeria. The ambush happened as the operatives patrolled vulnerable areas and inspected the grid installation.
“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,” he said.
Several personnel sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment. The NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi, condemned the attack and praised the courage and determination of the operatives in repelling the assault.
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