Special Forces Repel Boko Haram Attack On FOB Katarko
Troops of 198 Special Forces Battalion, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Katarko under Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) in the early hours of 23 October 2025.
At about 0305 hours, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate the location using highly sophisticated weapons. However, the gallant troops, displaying superior firepower, tactical resilience, and dogged determination, overwhelmed the terrorists and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy.
Following the engagement, the troops pursued the fleeing terrorists up to Gazargana, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and abandon several weapons and equipment.
During the encounter, the troops recorded no casualty, while 23 terrorists were neutralized and several others escaped with gunshot wounds. Items recovered from the terrorists include 4 x PKT guns, 14 x AK-47 rifles, 1 x RPG tube, 2 x RPG bombs, 2 x 60mm Commando Mortar bombs, 2 x hand grenades, 3 x IED materials, 1 x damaged radio, and assorted ammunition of various calibres.
In the aftermath of the attack, the Commander 402 Special Forces Brigade, Brigadier General Mohammed Bako Shehu, visited the troops at FOB Katarko where he commended their bravery, doggedness, and combat efficiency. He also conveyed the commendations of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Commander 4 Special Forces Command, and the Theatre Commander, urging the troops to sustain the momentum, remain vigilant, and continue to dominate their area of operations to deny the terrorists freedom of action.
As part of the visit, the Commander proceeded to the Level 2 Hospital in Damaturu, where he checked on personnel who sustained minor injuries during recent operations. He commended their courage and assured them of the Army’s continued support and commitment to their quick recovery and welfare.
The general security situation within the general area remain under control, while the morale of the troops is high and satisfactory, operations to clear remnants of fleeing terrorists are ongoing.
