Troops of Operation Hadin Kai Destroy Terrorist Camps, Repel Drone Attacks in North East

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), under Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded fresh operational successes in the ongoing Operation Desert Sanity, destroying several terrorist camps, recovering arms and logistics, and repelling coordinated attacks by insurgents in the Timbuktu Triangle.

I’m a statement signed on Monday by the Media Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col Sani Uba, said the military operation took place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, when troops advanced from their harbour locations to0 conduct intelligence-driven clearance operations across identified terrorist enclaves, including Chilaria, Garin Faruk, and Abirma.

The operation was supported by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, which provided sustained Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) coverage along the axis. The air-to-ground coordination enabled real-time tracking of terrorist movements, prevented enemy reinforcement, and enhanced the effectiveness and precision of ground operations.

During the operation, troops recovered several items of military and logistical importance. These included communication radios, mobile phones, five AK-47 magazines, quantities of 7.62×39mm special ammunition and 7.62mm NATO belted ammunition, Boko Haram and ISWAP flags, links of 12.7×108mm ammunition, diesel-powered grinding machines, large quantities of medical supplies and food items, a pickup truck, underground logistics storage facilities, and a Petroleum, Oil and Lubricants (POL) dump. The recoveries further degraded the operational and logistical capabilities of the terrorists.

However, at about midday, advancing troops came under attack by armed drones operated by the insurgents. Despite the attacks, the troops maintained their advance and sustained the offensive. A second drone attack later in the evening was also successfully repelled, forcing the terrorists to withdraw from the area.

Military authorities stated that troop morale remains high despite sustained engagements, with fighting efficiency maintained. The general security situation in the area is currently described as calm but unpredictable, with troops remaining on high alert.

The military high command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations aimed at neutralising terrorist threats, protecting civilians, and restoring lasting peace and stability in the North East.


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