Two US officials told CNN the military investigation could be followed by administrative action against more than one officer involved in planning and executing the mission. Bryan C. Black, Staff Sgt. US-Nigerien forces managed to kill 20 militants during the firefight, a defense official previously told CNN. Three US officials told CNN last month that they are looking to establish if there was a communications breakdown that might have delayed a French response once the ambush began. Ultimately, officials told CNN that the 12-man Green Beret-led team on the ground fought against the attackers with valor and that medals are expected.

Source: CNN January 12, 2018 00:00 UTC