TROOPS NEUTRALIZE TERRORISTS, SECURE KEY LOCATIONS IN NORTH EAST

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled multiple terrorist attacks and neutralized several insurgents in a series of coordinated operations across Borno and Adamawa States between October 25 and 31, 2025.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the operation, the troops thwarted attempted attacks, intercepted logistics supplies, and uncovered explosive devices aimed at disrupting peace and stability in the region.

On October 25, troops foiled a major terrorist attempt to storm Kukawa Town using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). Despite the vehicle’s armored protection, troops engaged it with RPG fire and later neutralized it using a T-55 tank, preventing a large-scale disaster. A 10-year-old girl sustained minor injuries during the exchange and was treated at a medical facility.

In a related development, troops working with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) discovered and safely detonated three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the Dikwa–Ajiri axis, averting potential sabotage on key supply routes.

On October 29, soldiers of 192 Battalion (Main), in collaboration with the CJTF, conducted a successful ambush around the Mandara Mountains, neutralizing two terrorists and forcing others to flee. Items recovered confirmed the group’s continued reliance on bicycles and locally sourced food supplies.

Similarly, troops of 202 Battalion, supported by members of the Volunteer Force, ambushed terrorists attempting to move from the Gezuwa axis toward Sambisa Forest along the Bama–Konduga Main Supply Route on October 30, forcing the insurgents to flee after a fierce firefight.

In Adamawa State, under Operation Strangulation, troops of 232 Battalion (Tactical) intercepted a drum of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and two motorcycles used for illegal conveyance of the product at Fillin Ball and Sebore, Mubi South Local Government Area. The smugglers abandoned the items and fled on sighting the troops.

Also, acting on credible intelligence, troops of 144 Battalion and Sector 4 Special Forces, supported by Hybrid Forces and local hunters, conducted a cordon and search operation in Sabon Gari village, Madagali LGA, arresting five suspects believed to be linked to Boko Haram/ISWAP. Recovered items included a desert camouflage uniform, live ammunition, and 50 wraps of Indian hemp.

Further follow-up operations on October 31 led to the recovery of a terrorist’s body, one AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and four bicycles within a 3-kilometre radius towards Sambisa Forest. Notably, no casualties were recorded among the troops.

Throughout the week-long operations, the Air Component Command provided close air support and intelligence surveillance (ISR), delivering precision strikes on terrorist hideouts and enhancing the overall effectiveness of ground maneuvers.

The Military High Command commended the troops for their professionalism, courage, and resilience, reaffirming the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring lasting peace to the North East.