Army Loses 10 Men To Boko Haram In Ashaka

Ten soldiers were yesterday killed in a battle to defend Ashaka town that was attacked by hundreds of Boko Haram insurgents who tried to overrun the town.

More than 70 Boko Haram terrorists were however killed, with scores other sustaining serious gunshot injuries as they fled the town, carrying away the corpses they could, as they did.

The Defence Headquarters confirmed the development on twitter, noting that the terrorists invaded the town in a convoy of 30 vehicles and many motorcycles.

"Terrorists fleeing Ashaka on Thursday managed to retrieve three truckloads full of their dead members following the defeat and heavy casualty they suffered after a fierce battle with troops in the area," said Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade via the social media site.

"The terrorists, who had come in large number with heavy equipment and convoy of over 30 vehicles and a number of motor cycles, were on a mission to take control of Ashaka town, after they had operated in Bajoga and environs in Gombe State.

"Troops who got wind of their intention to overrun other towns and pursued the terrorists while some also laid ambush for them. The terrorists were forced to abandon the mission when the troops proved unyielding. Most of the vehicles and equipment used by the terrorists for their mission were destroyed before they chose to flee the location.

"Over 10 soldiers however died in the battle while those who were wounded are being treated in military hospitals," he said.

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists had escaped with a truckload of dynamites used for manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDS) when they attacked Ashaka Cement Company last month.