A deadly shootout between separatist militants loyal to the Biafra Nations League (BNL) and the Rapid d’Intervention Battalions (BIR), a unit of the Cameroonian armed forces, has reportedly resulted in the loss of three soldiers’ lives.
The confrontation unfolded as the Cameroonian forces attempted an incursion into the Atabong East communities within the Idabato subdivision of the Bakassi Peninsula. It was at this point that Biafra militants engaged them in a fierce gunbattle.
The incident transpired around 4 pm on October 31, with the Dragon Fighter Marine, a faction of the BnL, leading a defensive attack against the BIR, which is considered an elite force under the command of the Cameroonian President.
Tragically, during the skirmish, three Cameroonian soldiers lost their lives.
Reports indicate that the Biafra separatists typically operate in the border areas of the Bakassi Peninsula. The battle for control of Idabato was brief, lasting less than 30 minutes, with the BIR ultimately retreating from the area.
The Cameroonian forces appear to have fallen into an ambush, and the separatist group initiated an attack from a concealed position.
As of now, Nigerian authorities have not issued any official statement to confirm or refute the reported events, leaving the situation in need of further clarification and resolution.