Military Neutralises ISWAP Commander, Foils Criminal Activities Across North-East

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational successes across the North-East, neutralising high-value terrorist targets, disrupting insurgent networks and foiling criminal activities through sustained, intelligence-led operations.

According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col Uba Sani, in a major breakthrough, intelligence sources have confirmed the killing of Julaibib, a senior Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander operating within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle. The terrorist leader was neutralised during a military encounter around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State recently.


According to the statement, further intelligence revealed that Julaibib’s elimination has thrown ISWAP elements in the area into disarray, with several fighters reportedly neutralised during the operation. The development is considered a major blow to the group’s command and control structure in the region.

In a related operation, troops of Operation HADIN KAI, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force, neutralised three terrorists during a coordinated ambush between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities in Borno State.

The operation followed credible intelligence on insurgent movements along the route. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered, while several other terrorists reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.

Similarly, on 29 January 2026, troops deployed in an ambush position at Tsokorok in Gwoza Local Government Area encountered Boko Haram/ISWAP elements. One terrorist was neutralised during the engagement, while others fled.
No casualties were recorded on the side of the troops, and two motorcycles were recovered.

Meanwhile, troops also recorded successes in Adamawa State. On 29 January 2026, soldiers responded to a distress call from Barama community in Mubi North Local Government Area, foiling an armed robbery attempt. Two suspects attempting to attack a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, were arrested. One of the suspects sustained a gunshot wound while attempting to confront troops and was taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Mubi, for treatment. The suspects were later handed over to the Nigeria Police. Items recovered include three cutlasses, two laptops, four mobile phones and a power bank.

Earlier, on 28 January 2026, troops, in collaboration with local vigilantes, conducted a fighting patrol along the Amtasa–Washim axis in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

During the patrol, troops engaged terrorists, forcing them to retreat. The operation also led to the rescue of a woman abducted by the terrorists and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one submachine gun, and 42 rounds of assorted ammunition.

The overall security situation across the theatre remains stable, as Operation HADIN KAI continues to intensify efforts to protect lives and property, dismantle terrorist networks and work with local communities and critical stakeholders to restore lasting peace and economic stability in the North-East.