A bold attempt by Boko Haram to capture Maiduguri, capital of Borno State, has been foiled by the military.

“The terrorists attack on Maiduguri in the early hours of Sunday was quickly contained,” Director Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, said. “The terrorists incurred massive casualty. The situation is calm as mopping up operation in the affected area is ongoing,” he added.

Olukolade in a statement issued this evening in Abuja also disclosed that “the terrorists who in their disarray strayed towards Bama, Ngom, Alou, Delwa and Mafa in the night have now been effectively contained. Mopping up operation is ongoing.

“Several weapons, arms and ammunition including two armoured vehicles and two artillery guns as well as 17 Hilux vehicles have been captured from them. Several terrorists also died.

“The affected locations have been secured and soldiers wounded are being treated.

“Patrols and pursuit of fleeing terrorists is continuing in coordination with allied forces.”

The Defence Spokesman explained that “the ongoing operation is in coordination with activities in the Multinational Joint Task. The terrorists are meant to be engaged in all fronts including their previous safe havens and hide outs in the region.

“It is in line with the arrangement for a comprehensive and coordinated military operation with inputs by military forces in the Lake Chad Basin Commission namely Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.”

•Photo shows Nigerian troops with artillery piece captured from terrorists during a previous battle in Borno.