Gunmen have reportedly killed eight soldiers, including a lieutenant, during a rescue mission in Kaduna State.
The attack was said to have occurred on Monday as troops moved to respond to an earlier attack and abduction around communities along the Kaduna River, between Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas.
Security sources said the troops were on their way to the affected area when they were ambushed by the armed men. Details of the incident remain sketchy, while the Nigerian Army had not issued an official statement at the time of this report.
The incident adds to growing concerns over renewed attacks by armed groups across parts of Kaduna and other states in the North-West and North-Central regions.
In recent months, security agencies have intensified operations against bandits and kidnappers, but several communities still remain vulnerable to attacks, abductions and deadly ambushes.
The reported killing of the soldiers is expected to raise fresh questions about the safety of troops deployed in difficult terrains and the level of intelligence available before rescue operations are launched.
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