Scipio's night raid destroyed the Carthaginian and Numidian camps, shifting the balance of the Second Punic War decisively toward Rome.
Key Facts
- Date
- 203 BC
- Hasdrubal survivors reaching Carthage
- 2,500 men
- Distance Hasdrubal fled to Carthage
- 40 kilometres
- Distance Syphax regrouped
- 11 kilometres
- Roman landing force
- Four legions
- Part of
- Second Punic War
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
After clearing Carthaginian forces from Iberia, Scipio brought the war to North Africa, landing near Utica in 204 BC with four legions. A prolonged standoff ensued while Syphax attempted to broker peace negotiations, giving Scipio time to send disguised officers to reconnoitre the Numidian camp's layout and construction.
Late one night, Scipio divided his army and launched simultaneous night attacks on the Numidian and Carthaginian camps. The Numidian reed barracks were set alight, causing panic and heavy casualties. Carthaginian troops rushing to aid their allies were then ambushed; their wooden huts were also burned. Hasdrubal escaped to Carthage with only 2,500 survivors and Syphax fled with a remnant of cavalry.
The destruction of both allied armies left Carthage strategically exposed. Over the following year Scipio defeated two further Carthaginian armies at the Great Plains and at Zama. Carthage was forced to sue for peace and accept a humiliating treaty, bringing the Second Punic War to an end.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Publius Cornelius Scipio.
Side B
2 belligerents
Hasdrubal Gisco, Syphax.