Army debunks ‘false’ reports on Benisheikh attack, confirms four soldiers killed
The Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI has dismissed reports circulating in parts of the media and on social platforms regarding the recent terrorist attack on a military location in Benisheikh, Borno State, describing them as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Friday, the military said the reports, which were accompanied by unrelated images and videos, were deliberately aimed at distorting facts, undermining ongoing operations, and eroding public confidence in the armed forces.
The command specifically refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed during the attack, insisting that the verified casualty figure remains four personnel.
It said two officers and two soldiers lost their lives in the encounter, contrary to exaggerated figures being circulated in some quarters.
The military also dismissed allegations that the Brigade Commander’s vehicle was unserviceable during the incident, explaining that he was operating in a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle which was temporarily immobilised during the heat of the battle while he coordinated the counter-attack.
According to the statement, the development reflected the intensity of the engagement and the presence of leadership at the frontline, rather than any equipment failure.
“The official and verified report, as earlier released through Defence Headquarters, clearly stated that two officers and two soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement. Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility,” the statement said.
The military warned against the spread of unverified information, urging the public to rely on official channels for updates, while reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North-East.
