Terror attacks: Army deploys more equipment in Niger

Terror attacks: Army deploys more equipment in Niger

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has directed the immediate reinforcement of troops on operational duties in Niger State with additional military equipment.

This followed the recent encounter between the military and terrorists in Zungeru and Shiroro areas of the state.

The move, The Nation learnt, was meant to enhance the operational effectiveness of the troops against terrorists occupying some parts of the state.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by Army spokesperson, Brig.-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said the COAS issued the directive after visiting the Forward Operating base at Erena in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on Tuesday.

The COAS was briefed on the security situation in the area by the General Officer Commanding I Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi.

On Monday, bandits ambushed and killed 13 soldiers on the Zungeru-Tegina road at Madaka Ward in the Rafi Local Government Area of the state.

Some bandits also claimed responsibility for the shooting down of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter conveying wounded soldiers on Chukuba village in Shiroro Local Government Area, killing all military personnel onboard.