Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly attack on a Nigerian Army base in Marte, Borno State, early Monday, killing several soldiers and forcing others to flee or be captured.
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The assault, which occurred around 3 a.m., targeted the 153 Task Force Battalion’s Forward Operating Base. The terrorists reportedly overpowered troops, looted arms, and set armored vehicles and an arms store ablaze.
Surviving soldiers retreated to Dikwa, about 38 kilometers away, where they regrouped with reinforcements, including local hunters and Civilian JTF members. Backed by Nigerian Air Force airstrikes, they later retook the base.
Thousands of civilians, mostly women and children, remain trapped in New Marte, while others have fled to safety.
Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack and urged prayers for peace. The incident follows a similar assault in March on a base in Wajiroko, fueling criticism of the military’s handling of the insurgency.
