A top commander of the Operation Hadin Kai, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General, Dzarma Zirkusu and three other soldiers have been killed by the members of Boko Haram insurgents and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), when they ambushed them on their way to provide reinforcements to the troops in Askira town, Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Borno State.
The development came after weeks of sustained onslaught on suspected terrorists in the North East general area, by fighting forces. Specifically, fighter jets had delivered targeted strikes on terrorists operating in the Lake Chad area a few weeks ago, killing scores in the process.
Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Brig-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, who confirmed this in a statement, Saturday, said there has been heavy deployment of troops and assets, which include five A – Jet, two A-29, two Dragon combat. As a result of the heavy deployment, the DAPR noted that nine Gun Trucks and One Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), belonging to the enemies of state, were destroyed.
He said: “Troops of Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai have neutralized several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a recent encounter in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
“In the fierce encounter which is still raging as at the time of filing this report, troops supported by the Air Component of OPHK have deployed five A – Jet, two A-29, two Dragon combat with which they destroyed nine Gun Trucks and One APC.” He regretted that, “a gallant senior officer Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu and three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice in a very rare display of gallantry as they provided reinforcement in a counter offensive against the terrorists, and successfully defended the location.”
“The families of the senior officer and soldiers have been contacted. “The Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya deeply commiserates with the families and relations of the fallen heroes.
“He has also directed that the troops continue in the ferocious counter offensive and hot pursuit to eliminate the remnant of the fleeing terrorists. Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has said that he was extremely saddened to hear about the deaths. In a release by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, the President said “Nigeria has lost brave soldiers. I salute their courage. May their souls Rest in Peace.
General Zirkusu leaves us sad and devastated. The soldier in him will remain immortal.” He urged the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Faruk Yahaya to accept his heartfelt condolences and that of the nation, and convey the same to the members of the families of those martyred. He added: “I pray to the Almighty to give you and