The Nigerian Army has dismissed widespread reports claiming heavy casualties during a recent terrorist attack in Benisheikh, describing them as false, misleading, and exaggerated.
In a statement issued on Friday, seen by Securitynewsalert.com, Headquarters Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) said it was seriously concerned about the circulation of inaccurate narratives across some television stations and social media platforms following the foiled attack on troops’ location.
“The narratives, often amplified with unrelated pictures and videos, are not only inaccurate but constitute a deliberate attempt to distort facts, undermine ongoing military operations and erode public confidence,” the statement read.
The Army categorically refuted claims that 17 soldiers, including a Brigade Commander, were killed in the incident. According to OPHK, the verified report released earlier by Defence Headquarters confirmed that “2 officers and 2 soldiers paid the supreme price in the course of the engagement.”
“Any contrary figure being circulated is entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility,” it added.
Addressing claims regarding the Brigade Commander’s vehicle, the Army clarified that the insinuation of mechanical failure was incorrect.
“The Commander was mounted on a high-grade Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, which was temporarily immobilised in the heat of combat while he was actively coordinating the counter-assault. This reflects the intensity of the engagement and the presence of leadership at the decisive point, not any equipment failure,” the statement explained.
The Army further noted that images and videos being shared in connection with the incident were unrelated and deliberately misrepresented to support false claims.
“The public is urged to disregard such content, which is clearly intended to misinform and create unnecessary panic,” OPHK said.
Condemning the spread of misinformation, the military warned against using security incidents for personal, political, or propaganda purposes.
“Such actions not only mislead the public but also diminish the sacrifices, courage, and professionalism of officers and men who continue to risk their lives daily in the defence of the nation,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its operational success, OPHK stated that troops successfully repelled the attack, retained control of their position, and forced the террористs into a disorganised retreat.
“The failed assault underscores the sustained pressure on terrorist elements and the growing combat effectiveness of troops across the Theatre,” it noted.
The Army emphasised that it remains the only credible source of verified information regarding its operations and urged the public to rely on official channels while refraining from spreading unverified reports.
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