The Nigerian Airforce (NAF) has confirmed that one of its helicopters has been lost in combat while providing air support to troops engaging Boko Haram terrorists in Damasak, Borno State .

According to Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, the helicopter was lost in combat while providing close air support to troops.

“A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Helicopter was lost in combat while providing close air support to troops of 145 Battalion at Damasak in Northern Borno State.

“The mission was part of the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North East. The incident occurred about 7:45 pm today, 2 January 2019. Details of the cause of the crash are still scanty.

“As soon as the details of the crash are known, they will be made available to the public,” Daramola said.