9 soldiers killed by Boko Haram during mission to rescue kidnapped oil workers

- 10 NNPC workers were rescued by soldiers after they were kidnapped

- Some terrorists were also killed in the operation

- Nine soldiers lost their lives in the rescue mission

Nine soldiers have lost their lives during a daring mission to rescue oil workers of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists.

This was confirmed by Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman who is the spokesperson of the army on Wednesday, July 26.

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The army said a civilian also died in the confrontation with the terrorists and their bodies have been recovered and taken to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.

The oil workers were on an exploration mission in Borno state when they were ambushed by the terrorists.

The army spokesperson said: “On receipt of the information, the Brigade mobilised and sent reinforcement, search and rescue party that include the Armed Forces Special Forces and guides that worked and pursued the terrorists throughout the night.

“So far, they have rescued all the NNPC staff and recovered the corpses of the Officer, eight soldiers and a civilian who have been evacuated to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.

“The team recovered 4 vehicles one of which include a gun truck mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun, two white Hilux taken away from NNPC staff and one blue Hilux belonging to CJTF.

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“The team also recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, several spare tyres, many jerry cans containing Petroleum, Oil and Lubricant, assorted drugs, Improvised Explosive Device making materials, reflective jackets and a Motorola handheld radio, among others.

“The team also neutralised many of the terrorists.”

Legit.ng had earlier reported that seven of the abducted persons were freed after a rescue-mission embarked upon by a joint force of soldiers and local security personnel.

Zanna Modu, the council chairman of Magumeri local government area of Borno state, told newsmen that the rescue mission was effected on Wednesday July 26.

According to him, the troops rescued four Civilian-JTF members, two NNPC personnel and a staff of the University of Maiduguri.

Watch a Legit.ng TV video below of the operation of the air force against Boko Haram:

Source: Legit.ng