By Paul Michael, Defence Editor, Abuja
Terrorists have reportedly attacked a military base in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, with 11 soldiers and three vigilantes feared dead.
A source who confirmed the attack said the terrorists invaded the base located at pole wire and engaged the soldiers in a fierce gun battle.
The source also said that 19 others were injured during the gun battle.
According to him, the bandits came on motorcycles and carrying AK47 rifles including Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG). He said the open confrontation with the bandits lasted for about two hours.
“We lost 11 men while 19 soldiers were wounded in action.
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“They also burnt down three Armoured Personel Carriers (APC) after they overwhelmed the troops,” he said.
It was gathered that the bandits also carted away several weapons from the troops.
Also speaking with newsmen, the chairman of the Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Union, Ishaq Usman Kasai, who also confirmed the death of three vigilantes said the attack took place on Sunday about 3.00pm, The Trumpet gathered.
According to him, the terrorists suspected to be members of the Ansaru where believed to be coming from Niger State when they attacked the military base.
“When we heard we had to run and seek refuge elsewhere. Most of the residents slept outside Birnin Gwari town,” he said.
He said normalcy had however returned, adding that the Kaduna /Birnin Gwari is a very dangerous road.
Findings gathered that those soldiers wounded have been conveyed to Birnin Gwari General Hospital and 271 Nigerian Airforce Medical Center. Those killed have been conveyed to the 44 military hospitals in Kaduna.
At the time of filing the report, there was no confirmation from the police, Army and the state government.
