Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter-terrorism operations in Yobe State have thwarted an attack by Boko Haram terrorists on high-tension electric towers in the state.
Attacks on electricity infrastructure have increased recently, causing a blackout in the affected areas.
Three electricity towers, T193, T194 and T195, were destroyed on December 28, 2023, by terrorists with improvised explosive devices in Borno State.
In June 2024, two towers, T193 and T194, along the 330 kilovolts single circuit transmission line were destroyed by vandals in Borno State.
Worried by the attacks, the Federal Government expressed its desire to establish “power rangers to protect power infrastructure across the country.”
The troops, in Kasesa village of Yobe State, prevented another attack on the nation’s electricity infrastructure.
In a statement on Sunday posted on X, the Army said the troops, in collaboration with hunters, following credible intelligence, ambushed the terrorists on their way to damage the infrastructure.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter-terrorism operations in Yobe State, in collaboration with local hunters’ group have thwarted an attempt by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists to destroy high tension electric pylons near Kasesa Village on the outskirts of Damaturu town.
“The troops, acting on credible intelligence, laid ambush for the terrorists and intercepted them while en route to the pylons in a suspicious vehicle.
“A fierce firefight ensued, as the troops engaged the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their vehicle and flee with gunshot wounds,” the statement read.
The Army said a total of eight IEDs were recovered from the terrorists after the operation.
“Upon searching the vehicle, the troops discovered eight improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with detonating cords, along with a trade test card belonging to one Emmanuel Adamu.
“The quick and decisive action of the troops and hunters prevented a potential catastrophe and safeguarded the electricity infrastructure in the region.
“The successful operation is a clear pointer to the dedication and vigilance of the security forces in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of the local communities in Yobe State,” the statement added.