Air-ground offensive repels Kukawa attack, destroys gun trucks

Troops have foiled a coordinated terrorist assault on military positions in Kukawa following an overnight battle backed by air support.

Military sources said the attackers launched the multi-directional assault late on February 20, advancing on gun trucks, motorcycles and on foot. Troops mounted a strong defence, engaging the insurgents in intense fighting that continued into the early hours of February 21 before forcing them to retreat while evacuating casualties.

Air strikes conducted during the pursuit destroyed one gun truck and several motorcycles transporting fleeing fighters, leading to the neutralisation of additional terrorists.

During follow-up clearance operations, troops recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, 16 loaded magazines, three handheld radios and other items believed to have been used by the attackers. Evidence also indicated that the insurgents evacuated wounded and dead from the battlefield.

The military confirmed that one soldier was killed during the encounter, while some equipment was damaged by rocket fire. Injured personnel were evacuated for treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

Authorities said the coordinated air-ground operation reflects sustained pressure on insurgent groups and ongoing efforts to degrade their operational capacity across the theatre.