Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said no fewer than 40 terrorists died while trying to free their captured members in an encounter with troops in the outskirts of Bulanbuli, Borno.

Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, Director of Defence Information said a number of captured terrorists believed to be the ring leaders of those operating around Alagarmo, sparked off a major fight in the outskirts on Thursday night.

“Over 40 terrorists died in the encounter while four soldiers lost their lives and nine were wounded. More than 16 rifles and a substantial number of assorted calibres of ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) materials, SIM Cards and electronic items were recovered from the terrorists.

“Two of the terrorists were earlier arrested at a local market two days ago, while trying to procure foodstuff while others were spying on the military base in the area,’’ Olukolade stated.

He said other members of the group still being trailed included a terrorist medic who was on a mission to procure drugs for use by his colleagues.

He added that Bulanbuli is between Alagarmo and Sambisa Forest where the terrorists had been attempting to establish a stronghold in their campaign.