4 NSCDC officers killed in Boko Haram ambush, 1 missing

• Four NSCDC officers killed and one missing after a Boko Haram ambush during an inspection tour of national grid installations in Niger State
• The ambush occurred near the boundary between Niger and Kaduna states, in the Farin-Kasa area of the Chukun Local Government Area
• The team was escorting stranded expatriates found near Dagwachi Village when over 200 insurgents attacked them from a hilltop

Four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have been confirmed dead following an ambush by Boko Haram insurgents on Monday, November 18, 2024. 

The attack occurred during an inspection tour of the national grid installations in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. One officer remains missing, while two others returned to base unscathed.

The tragic incident unfolded near the boundary between Niger and Kaduna states, prompting widespread condemnation and sorrow.

NSCDC statement confirms casualties

The NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, provided an update on the incident on Thursday, November 28, stating:

"Seven personnel from the Corps’ Special Squad, drawn from the National Headquarters, FCT, and Kaduna State Command, were initially declared missing in action after they were ambushed by Boko Haram insurgents during an inspection tour of the National Grid Installation."

He further disclosed that four bodies had been recovered, two officers had returned unhurt, and one remained missing.

Leadership's response

The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr Ahmed Audi, extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and praised the bravery of the injured personnel.

During a visit to the wounded officers at a medical facility, Audi described the attack as a tragic loss and commended the operatives for their courage in defending national assets. 

Audi assured them of the Corps’ unwavering support, including full coverage of medical expenses and expedited insurance benefits for affected families.

"This incident highlights the sacrifices made by our personnel in their commitment to safeguarding national assets. Their unwavering determination is a testament to their dedication to the service of our fatherland," Audi stated.

He also directed immediate financial and logistical assistance to ensure proper care for the injured and urged all NSCDC personnel to remain vigilant despite the loss.

Details of the ambush

The ambush occurred in the Farin-Kasa area of Chukun Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The team, comprising nine officers and 71 other ranks from various NSCDC commands, had just completed surveillance activities in Shiroro and was escorting stranded expatriates discovered in Dagwachi Village when the attack occurred.

Over 200 heavily armed insurgents launched the assault from a hilltop, opening fire with sophisticated weapons. Despite being outnumbered, the NSCDC operatives fought back valiantly, neutralising more than 50 insurgents during the intense crossfire.

Call for public support

As investigations into the ambush continue, Audi urged Nigerians to support the NSCDC and other security agencies in their fight against insecurity.

"Our personnel face significant risks daily in their duties to protect lives, property, and critical national infrastructure. They deserve all the support we can provide," he stated.

The Commandant General reassured affected families and personnel that the Corps prioritises their welfare and will remain steadfast in addressing their needs.

This attack underscores the ongoing challenges security operatives face in their efforts to combat terrorism and secure the nation.

Lakurawa, Boko Haram, 3 other terrorist groups operating in Nigeria

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that a rising terrorist group known as Lakurawa is quickly becoming a significant security threat in northern Nigeria, according to an expert, Bulama Bukart. 

Bukarti revealed that Lakurawa militants have been closely monitoring both civilian communities and military installations in the North-West region. In addition to their advanced weaponry, the group has been utilising drones for surveillance, further complicating the security situation.

Other terrorist groups in Nigeria include Boko Haram, the Fulani militants, the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Ansaru.