Troops Escape Unhurt After IED Hits Armoured Vehicle During Civilian Escort Mission in Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai escaped without injury after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated beneath an armoured vehicle during a patrol and civilian escort operation in Borno State, highlighting the continuing threat posed by insurgents along key military supply routes.

The incident occurred at about 8:50 a.m. on July 27 while personnel of the 19 Battalion (Motorised) attached to the 25 Task Force Brigade Garrison were conducting a Major Supply Route (MSR) dominance patrol and escorting civilian traffic through the Bulabulin axis, according to military sources familiar with the operation.

Sources said the lead Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle struck a concealed IED believed to have been planted by suspected Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents. The blast damaged the vehicle’s front tyres but failed to penetrate its protective hull, leaving all personnel on board unharmed.

Following the explosion, reinforcement troops were swiftly deployed to secure the area, assess the scene for additional explosive devices and provide protection for the convoy. The damaged tyres were replaced on site, enabling the patrol to continue its escort mission without further incident.

Military sources noted that the attack underscores the persistent use of roadside bombs by insurgent groups seeking to target security forces, disrupt military logistics and hinder civilian movement along strategic roads in the North-East.

Despite the incident, security officials said troops remain on high alert and continue to conduct aggressive patrols, route clearance operations and convoy escorts aimed at safeguarding communities and ensuring the safe movement of civilians and essential supplies across the theatre of operations.

Operation Hadin Kai has intensified efforts in recent months to counter insurgent activities in Borno and neighbouring states through sustained offensive operations, intelligence-driven missions and enhanced protection of critical transport corridors.