Recent Successes in Counter-Terrorism Operations
Troops involved in Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), under the Joint Task Force North East, have made significant progress in recent counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in Borno. Their efforts have led to the rescue of 86 kidnapped victims, the arrest of 29 logistics suppliers, the foiling of a terrorist ambush, and the recovery of various weapons. These achievements were highlighted in a statement released by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
The statement detailed that the troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion, operating under Sector 2 OPHK, encountered Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on 9 November 2025. This occurred after they discovered that the terrorists were abducting civilians and vehicles along the Buratai–Kamuya Road. The encounter took place at Dutse Kura, where the troops successfully thwarted the attack. They then pursued the terrorists towards Mangari and overpowered them in a follow-up engagement near a camp, forcing the insurgents to flee in disarray.
During the search of the area, the troops uncovered a variety of weapons, including 11 makeshift terrorist structures. Additionally, they rescued 86 kidnapped victims, who included men, women, and children. The recovered items from the bandits comprised one AK-47 rifle, five magazines containing 73 rounds, four PKT ammunition belts, five civilian vehicles, five motorcycles, eight bicycles, and two logistics tricycles.
The statement also noted that the terrorists’ camp was destroyed following clearance operations. In another related operation, troops stationed at Mangada arrested 29 terrorist logistics suppliers who were en route to Chilaria with several items. The recovered goods included two pickup vans and a tricycle loaded with Premium Motor Spirit. Approximately 1,000 litres of petrol in jerricans, four gallons of engine oil, two new gun truck tyres, a large cache of medical consumables, and substantial quantities of foodstuffs and provisions were also seized.
All operations were conducted successfully without any casualties among the troops. The Military High Command commended the gallantry and professionalism of the forces involved and urged Operation HADIN KAI to continue its operations to prevent terrorists from operating freely across the North East theatre.
Key Recoveries and Arrests
- Weapons and Equipment:
- One AK-47 rifle
- Five magazines with 73 rounds
- Four PKT ammunition belts
- Five civilian vehicles
- Five motorcycles
- Eight bicycles
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Two logistics tricycles
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Logistics Suppliers Arrested:
- 29 individuals arrested in Mangada
- Items recovered include:
- Two pickup vans
- A tricycle loaded with Premium Motor Spirit
- Approximately 1,000 litres of petrol in jerricans
- Four gallons of engine oil
- Two new gun truck tyres
- A large cache of medical consumables
- Large quantities of foodstuffs and provisions
Impact of the Operations
The operations conducted by the Joint Task Force North East have had a significant impact on the activities of terrorist groups in the region. By rescuing hostages, disrupting supply chains, and destroying camps, the military has weakened the operational capacity of these groups. The successful execution of these missions without any loss of life among the troops underscores the effectiveness and discipline of the forces involved.
The commendation from the Military High Command reflects the importance of maintaining these operations to ensure continued security in the North East. The ongoing efforts are crucial in preventing the resurgence of terrorist activities and safeguarding the communities affected by insurgency.
As the operations continue, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum achieved so far and ensuring that the region remains free from the threat of terrorism. The collaboration between different units and the strategic approach taken by the Joint Task Force North East have proven to be effective in combating the challenges posed by extremist groups.