Boko Haram: 10 soldiers killed in Gombe battle

The terrorists invaded the town on Thursday, December 4, but were engaged in a fierce battle by the troops leaving over 70 of them dead: The Boko Haram attack on Ashaka in Gombe State has claimed the lives of 10 soldiers, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters has said. The terrorists invaded the town on Thursday, December 4, but were engaged in a fierce battle by the troops leaving over 70 of them dead. According to the Director of Defence Information, Chris Olukolade:  “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.” “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.” The insurgents had earlier attacked the Ashaka Cement factory on November 5 and are believed to have made away with vehicle full of explosive devices.