Eight Chadian soldiers were killed in fierce fighting with Boko Haram insurgents at the weekend on islands on Lake Chad, which borders four countries on the edge of the Sahara, Chad’s army said Monday.

“Our forces attacked Boko Haram elements on five islands near Nigeria on June 24 and 25,” said spokesman Colonel Azem, indicating eight soldiers had died and another 18 were wounded.

He also claimed troops had killed 162 jihadists from the Nigeria-based group. (AFP)