# Tags

TROOPS NEUTRALISE TERRORISTS, FOIL VBIED ATTACKS IN TIMBUKTU TRIANGLE OPERATIONS

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded significant gains in the Timbuktu Triangle, clearing key terrorist locations including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. During these operations, troops engaged fleeing terrorist elements, neutralizing several of them. In a statement, the Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, detailed a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device attack on January 20, 2026. While consolidating north of Chilaria, troops encountered two VBIEDs. “Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised,” Uba stated. The second device breached the defensive position, affecting some logistics platforms and resulting in casualties among soldiers and Civilian Joint Task Force members. The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters under continuous air cover from Nigerian Air Force and Army platforms, which also neutralized more terrorists during the process. Uba further reported that troops discovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies, killed in earlier encounters and buried by their cohorts. “This discovery exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits terrorist propaganda narratives,” said Sani Uba. Across the theatre, the security situation remains generally stable with troops’ morale high. Operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements. Lieutenant Colonel Uba affirmed that troops of Operation HADIN KAI remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East.

NIGERIAN TROOPS NEUTRALISE THREE BOKO HARAM SUICIDE BOMBERS IN BORNO OPERATION

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully neutralised three terrorist suicide bombers in a deliberate operation along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, confirmed the development in a statement. Uba stated that the operation, driven by covert intelligence and executed in collaboration with local volunteer forces, led to the tracking and neutralisation of the bombers before they could attack innocent civilians. “During the encounter, suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) materials in the possession of the terrorists were recovered and safely secured,” he said. The troops also inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists escorting the bombers, forcing survivors to flee into the Mandara Mountains. Preliminary assessments indicate the suicide bombers were dispatched from the Mandara Mountains by the Ali Ngulde-led faction of Boko Haram. Exploitation of the area led to the recovery of four abandoned AK-47 rifles and the destruction of two terrorist motorcycles. Sani Uba noted that Operation HADIN KAI has intensified efforts to detect and neutralise threats from this enclave using human intelligence and communication intercepts. The Theatre Command continues to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and community-based forces across Borno and Yobe States to protect soft targets. Public enlightenment campaigns have also been intensified to encourage vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities. Lieutenant Colonel Uba reiterated that Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in sustaining offensive pressure on terrorists to ensure the safety of the populace.

TROOPS REPEL COORDINATED TERRORIST ATTACK ON BORNO BASE

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI successfully defended Forward Operating Base Kangar in Mallam Fatori, Borno State, against a coordinated terrorist attack in the early hours of Tuesday, 4 November 2025. The assault was launched by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists using armed drones and mortar fire. In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed that the troops, reinforced by the Main Force from the Battalion under Sector 3, displayed exceptional gallantry and tactical superiority to defeat the attack. Sani Uba stated that despite the initial drone and indirect fire, the troops held their ground and engaged in a fierce firefight with close air support from Nigerien Fighter Ground Attack platforms. The terrorists retreated in disarray into the waterways of the Tumbuns, evacuating casualties. A post-battle exploitation neutralized six terrorists and recovered five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 rifle magazines, 258 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition, five RPG bombs, four armed drone bombs, five 36-type hand grenades, two bandoliers, and one Android phone. Sani Uba added that follow-on air interdiction by the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerien Air Force neutralized additional terrorists. Minor injuries were sustained by some Joint Task Force and Civilian Joint Task Force personnel, who were evacuated by Multinational Joint Task Force platforms and are in stable condition. The MNJTF provided Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance support. Exploitation operations continue in the waterways, and troops maintain high morale. The Military High Command commended the troops for their resilience and professionalism. JOINT FORCES THWART TERRORIST ASSAULT IN BORNO WITH SUPERIOR FIREPOWER A coordinated terrorist attack on Forward Operating Base Kangar in Mallam Fatori, Borno State, was decisively repelled by troops of Operation HADIN KAI on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, resulting in significant enemy losses. The attack, involving Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists using armed drones and mortars, was met with robust defense. In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, elaborated that the troops, bolstered by Sector 3 reinforcements, demonstrated courage and tactical prowess. Sani Uba emphasized that the joint force, aided by close air support from Nigerien platforms, overwhelmed the terrorists, forcing their retreat into the Tumbuns waterways. Post-engagement analysis confirmed six terrorists neutralized and the seizure of five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines, 258 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition, five RPG bombs, four armed drone bombs, five hand grenades, two bandoliers, and an Android phone. Sani Uba further noted that air interdiction by Nigerian and Nigerien forces inflicted more casualties on fleeing terrorists. Minor injuries to personnel and CJTF members were treated after evacuation via MNJTF, with all in stable condition. The MNJTF also supplied ISR support for situational awareness. Ongoing exploitation operations aim to track terrorists, and troops retain high morale and dominance. The Military High Command praised the troops’ resilience, reaffirming commitment to North East security.

NIGERIAN TROOPS NEUTRALIZE 10 INSURGENTS IN GAMBORU-DIKWA-MARTE ENCOUNTER, SEIZE WEAPONS

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have eliminated 10 insurgents in a precision night operation along the Gamboru-Dikwa-Marte axis, following a failed terrorist infiltration attempt from the Flatari area. The engagement occurred after the terrorists, suffering casualties, diverted towards Dikwa only to be ambushed on the Dikwa-Marte road. In a statement, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba confirmed that troops from Sector 1 of the 24 Task Force Brigade manning a pre-established ambush position identified and engaged the hostile elements at approximately 23:50 hours on 25 October 2025. The unit delivered heavy and accurate suppressive fire, forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray. Uba noted that after a period of limited visibility, a clearance operation at first light confirmed the neutralization of 10 insurgents and led to the recovery of a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and equipment. Recovered items include five AK-47 rifles, one PKT Machine gun, three locally-made dane guns, two fabricated pistols, five AK-47 magazines loaded with 7.62mm special rounds, a huge cache of 7.62 x 54mm linked ammunition, boxes of cartridges, two motorcycles, two bicycles, one radio, one dane gun barrel, one water flask, one raincoat, one blanket, and assorted charms. Uba emphasized that the Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry, vigilance, and tactical proficiency during the operation. The success of the ambush underscores the effectiveness of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts and reaffirms the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to sustaining offensive actions, protecting civilians, and restoring lasting peace and stability in the North East region. Sani Uba reiterated that this operation follows the recent neutralization of over 50 terrorists in a previous encounter at the Katarko axis, highlighting continued pressure on insurgent groups.

DHQ ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL NEUTRALIZATION OF 5 NOTORIOUS TERRORIST COMMANDERS

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that troops fighting against terrorists and other criminal elements in various parts of the country have successfully neutralized 5 notorious terrorist commanders. The eliminated commanders include Amir Dunkei, Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu, Ali Yar Daribiyar, and Yello Dambokolo. According to the Director of Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major General Markus Kangye, some other notorious gunrunners and kidnappers on the troops’ watch list were also arrested and taken into custody for interrogation. They include Yakubu Jubril, Abubakar Yahaya, Isiya Sani, Haruna Abdullahi Ali Abba, Mallam Aminu Idris, Mohammed Hamisu (aka Mamiyo or Officer Mohammed), Shuaibu Bulama, and Isah Abdullahi, as well as Abdullahi Mohammed. Major General Kangye also revealed that troops rescued about 134 kidnapped victims, while a terrorist commander, Ibn Ali, and 151 terrorists, as well as their family members, surrendered to troops. Additionally, troops discovered and destroyed 126 crude oil cooking ovens, 107 dugout pits, 39 boats, 83 storage tanks, 88 drums, 35 vehicles, and 73 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta region. In July 2025 alone, troops killed large numbers of terrorists, arrested 578 suspected terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements, and rescued 134 kidnapped victims. Major General Kangye emphasized that “every operation we undertake is guided by our unwavering commitment to national security, the safety of our personnel, and the principles we are sworn to uphold.” He added, “Our forces remain vigilant, ready, and resolute in facing current and emerging threats. We thank the public for their continued support and understanding as we carry out our mission with discipline, transparency, and integrity.” The DHQ has assured the public of its continued efforts to ensure national security and safety.

MILITARY TROOPS FOIL TERRORISTS’ ATTACKS IN BORNO STATE, NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF INSURGENTS

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully foiled terrorists’ attacks in Buratai and Mallam Fatori areas of Borno State, neutralizing scores of insurgents and recovering assorted arms and ammunition. According to reports, the attack on Buratai occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 5, 2025, when terrorists attempted to infiltrate troops’ location from all approaches. However, the troops swiftly engaged the terrorists with heavy gunfire, while the Air Component provided close air support. The troops discovered several lifeless bodies of terrorists and recovered a large cache of assorted arms and ammunition. The general area is currently being exploited by the troops. In a similar incident, troops in Mallam Fatori foiled another attack by terrorists, who attempted to attack troops’ location from different fronts. The troops engaged the insurgents with superior firepower, causing them to flee in disarray. Preliminary discoveries revealed several terrorists killed, with many AK-47 Rifles, General Purpose Machine Guns, Rocket Propelled Guns, and other terrorist equipment recovered. The determined troops are currently exploiting the general area, with Air Component and Nigerian Army Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Command providing air support. The coordinated efforts underscore the determined efforts to jointly deny the terrorists freedom of action by Operation Hadin Kai.

ARMED FORCES SCORE BIG WIN AGAINST TERRORISTS IN ZAMFARA STATE

The Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade, led by Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, has recorded a significant victory in its fight against terrorism in Zamfara State. In a daring operation, troops from Combat Team 6 engaged a large group of bandits in Mai Kwanugga village, Talata-Mafara Local Government Area, killing several terrorists, including five notorious bandit leaders. The neutralized bandit leaders were identified as Auta Jijji, Dankali, Sagidi, Kachallah Rijaji, and Kachallah Suza. The troops recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, a PKT Machine Gun, RPG tubes, and RPG bombs. Unfortunately, two civilians were caught in the crossfire and injured. In a separate incident, troops from Combat Team 2 responded to a protest in Dayau village, Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, where residents had blocked a major road due to bandit attacks. The security team successfully dispersed the crowd, restored calm, and reopened the road. The Brigade Commander praised the bravery and professionalism of the troops, assuring citizens of the army’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the state. The military urged the public to provide credible information to security agencies and avoid taking the law into their own hands.

TROOPS OF OPERATION SAFE HAVEN NEUTRALISE NOTORIOUS KIDNAPPERS, RESCUE VICTIMS AND RECOVER WEAPONS

Troops of Operation Safe Haven have successfully rescued four kidnapped victims and neutralized two notorious kidnappers in an encounter along the Kafanchan-Kwoi road in Kaduna. The operation was carried out by troops of Sector 7 Command of Operation Safe Haven under the command of Major-General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding the Third Armoured Division in Jos, Plateau State. According to reports, the troops received a distress call on February 14, 2025, at about 2030 hours, regarding the kidnapping of some passengers along the Kafanchan-Kwoi road at Afana Daji Village in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The troops immediately mobilized to the area and conducted search operations, leading to the rescue of one of the victims with a gunshot wound. Based on credible intelligence, the troops conducted further offensive operations around Angwan Rimi Forest in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State on February 15, 2025, at about 1600 hours. During the encounter, the troops neutralized two of the kidnappers and recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, 8 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special), 10 mobile phones, foodstuffs, and a cash sum of One Million, One Hundred and Thirty-Six Thousand Naira (#1,136,000.00) only. The rescued victims have been identified as Mathew Ayemowa, Tunde Salam, and Mustapha Mohammed. Troops are currently dominating the general area with mobile patrols to ensure the safety of the residents.

POLICE NEUTRALIZE ESN TERRORIST KINGPINS, RECOVER DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN IMO

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, announced that the Nigeria Police Force has achieved a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against terrorism with the neutralization of three deadly terrorist kingpins associated with the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo State. The operation, which took place on January 24, 2025, resulted in the neutralization of six members of the terrorist group, with three being ESN kingpins identified as Ifeanyi Anayo a.k.a. Zuma De Rock (28), Chukwuemeka Odionyenfe a.k.a. Nmimi (22), and Kingsley Sunday (21). Adejobi stated that the operatives also recovered five AK-47 rifles, 552 rounds of live ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), several communication equipment, along with eight operational motorcycles used by the group. Prior investigations had revealed the involvement of the group in several high-profile crimes, including the attack on the Owerri Correctional Center on April 5, 2021, and the killing of five policemen in Umunna, Okigwe, on December 12, 2022. Adejobi noted that the group was also involved in multiple kidnappings, including those of WAEC staff on June 5, 2023, and four Chinese nationals on December 6, 2023. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has commended the gallant operatives for their exceptional display of bravery and coordination. Adejobi quoted the IGP as charging police operatives across commands and formations to sustain the tempo and implement the Force’s action plan aimed at reducing crimes drastically in the first quarter of the year 2025. Adejobi emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains unyielding in its goal towards ensuring national security and public safety.