Army repels early morning Boko Haram attack in Gwoza

The Nigerian Army has reported that Boko Haram terrorists, despite their obvious losses "made a desperate but costly attempt" to attack its blocking position early Friday morning in Gwoza.

The encounter according to Army spokesperson Col. Sani K. Usman started at about 5:00am and lasted for almost two hours. 

"Although details are still being collated," Usman said, seven (7) terrorists were gunned down and some items were recovered by the troops.

Among the items recovered are 1 Toyota Hilux vehicle, 11 AK-47 rifles, 1 Shilka Gun, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade Tube and 6 Hand Grenades. 

Other items include several rounds of Shilka Gun and Machine Gun ammunition.

The troops are reportedly on "hot pursuit of the attackers into Sambisa forest with a view to eliminate all of them while the Nigerian Air Force is bombarding their locations." the Army spokesperson added.

The coherent fighting force of the Boko Haram terrorists has been degraded over time by troops through relentless attacks, patrols and aerial bombardments says Col. Usman and the desperate attack on Friday "was a failed attempt to project an image of strength.

"It is part of the last struggles of a dying evil." the Col. added.