Troops repel Boko Haram attack in Damasak, kill many in Yobe

Nigerian troops yesterday repelled hundreds of Boko Haram members who wanted to attack Damasak, a town in northern part of Borno State.

Credible sources said the assailants belonging to the Mus’ab Albarnawi camp of the Boko Haram, drove to Damasak in convoy of vehicles mounted with Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs).

They were, however, ambushed by Nigerian troops who got prior information of the planned attack, one of the sources said, adding that many of the attackers were killed.

A local who does not want his name in print, said the attackers went to Damasak around 5.45pm. “The fight continued through the night and the invaders could not get access to the town,” he said.

He added the casualty figure from both sides would be known tomorrow [today]. A security source who is not in the position to speak on record confirmed the attack.

Damasak is the headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area in northern Borno. It is located near the confluence of the Yobe River and Komadugu Gana River, adjoining the border with Niger. It was taken over by the Boko Haram in the past.

And in Yobe State, many Boko Haram fighters who wanted to attack Goniri village in Gujba Local Government Area, yesterday, were also killed by Nigerian soldiers.

A security source who confirmed the development, said the Boko Haram fighters went to Goniri around 4pm.

“There was serious fight but I can assure you that our men had an upper hand today (yesterday),” he said.

Two sources from Goniri who are now in Damaturu confirmed attempt by the Boko Haram to take over Goniri and the military facility there.