No fewer than seven soldiers and a lieutenant were killed during a rescue mission following an earlier attack and abduction in Kaduna State.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday, June 8, 2026, in communities located along the Kaduna River between Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas.
According to reports, armed bandits ambushed the troops during the operation, resulting in the deaths of eight military personnel, including a lieutenant.
The attack comes amid a fresh surge in bandit activities across northern Nigeria despite ongoing military operations aimed at curbing insecurity in the region.
According to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the incident was reported on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.
The latest attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing communities in the North-West and North-Central regions, where bandits continue to target civilians and security personnel.
Military efforts to contain the attacks have continued, but the situation remains a major concern.
In March 2025, several soldiers were also killed during coordinated attacks on military bases in parts of Kaduna and Niger states. At the time, the Nigerian Army described the incident as a “three-pronged attack” on its formations.
Terrorists Kill Army General, 17 Others
The attack follows previous deadly assaults by insurgent groups.
Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and 17 soldiers were earlier killed in coordinated attacks by ISWAP fighters on military bases in Borno State.
Major General Michael Onoja said troops fought back with “exceptional courage” and eventually forced the insurgents to retreat after intense fighting.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the killings, describing the attack as “a sign of desperation.”
Top Military Officers Killed by Terrorists
Nigeria’s prolonged battle against Boko Haram and ISWAP has claimed the lives of several senior military officers since 2015.
Many of these officers were killed while leading operations against insurgents, highlighting the dangers faced by troops on the frontlines of the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
Source: Legit.ng
