At least nine Nigerian soldiers lose their lives after vehicle runs over explosive device

At least nine Nigerian soldiers were killed and several others injured when their convoy ran over a landmine and came under fire in Borno state in northeastern Nigeria, two security sources said on Monday.

The attack took place on Sunday near Bindundul village, about 20 kilometres from Kareto.

"The terrorists planted a mine that our soldiers stepped on. Unfortunately, about nine soldiers died instantly, while five others were seriously injured," said Abba Kaka Tuja, a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force involved in the rescue operation.

He added that an armoured vehicle was destroyed when the mine detonated, followed by sporadic gunfire from terrorists.

Patrol and defence

The soldiers were traveling from Maiduguri to Damasak, the headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area, when the attack occurred around 16:00 GMT, Tuja said.

Military officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Nigerian government has ramped up patrol and defence operations following the increased security threats.