Nigerian forces scored a victory against Boko Haram militants Wednesday (Jan. 14), as troops were able to stop insurgent fighters who stormed the northeastern town of Biu shooting at random.
Witness Yahaya Mshelliza told Reuters, "They came shouting 'Allahu Akbar' (God is greatest) and shooting everywhere, but confronted by the soldiers for three hours, most them were killed.”
"At the moment only three escaped into the bush and are being pursued by the soldiers."
Another witness, Mohammadu Idi, said he saw the bodies of at least 17 slain Boko Haram members after the confrontation.
The Nigerian military confirmed the attack via Twitter writing, "Terrorist attack repelled by the military in Biu. Troops in pursuit of fleeing terrorists."
Security forces also said that five Boko Haram members had been captured in the attack.
Publication date: January 14, 2015