In a disturbing escalation, suspected terrorists have launched a drone strike on a Nigerian military base in Yobe State.
The attack took place on Wednesday, targeting the 27 Task Force Brigade base in Buni Gari, Yobe.
Security sources noted that the terrorists used three fighter drones in their assault.
However, the Nigerian soldiers stationed at the base were able to respond swiftly, shooting down all three drones before they could inflict any significant damage.
According to a source, “It appears the use of drones is becoming the new tactic for these terrorists. The attack occurred around 5 pm, but our soldiers were alert and managed to shoot down all three drones as soon as they heard the unusual sound.”
This latest drone attack follows a similar assault on a military base in Borno State, which occurred just two days earlier.
On Monday, six soldiers were injured after terrorists launched a drone strike on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area, Borno.
The attack was confirmed by a military signal, which also noted that a gun truck belonging to the army was damaged.
The military communication further detailed the incident, saying, “At about 231300A Dec 24, terrorists launched an attack using mortars and small arms fire on troops at FOB Wajiroko. The troops repelled the attack, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray. Shortly after, at about 231323A Dec 24, the base came under another attack using multiple armed drones carrying locally fabricated grenades. Troops observed up to four different armed drones. Casualties included five soldiers injured and one gun truck damaged.”
The security situation in the area remains tense, with the military confirming that the morale of the troops remains high despite the unpredictable and ongoing threat from the insurgents.
The rise of drone warfare marks a concerning new phase in the nearly 14-year-long battle between the Nigerian military and insurgents in the Northeast.
The use of drones by these groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), is increasing, further complicating the military’s response to the insurgency.
