BORNO STATE – Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, under Operation HADIN KAI, have eliminated 16 terrorists and successfully rescued 11 kidnapped persons during a series of coordinated military operations across parts of Borno State.
According to military sources, the operations were carried out along key flashpoints, including the Gidan Kaji axis of the Maiduguri–Damboa Road, where troops engaged fleeing insurgents in a fierce confrontation.
Heavy Losses Recorded by Terrorists
During the encounter, 16 terrorists were neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot injuries. Security forces also recovered more than 20 bicycles, assorted weapons, and logistics supplies believed to be vital to insurgent movements and operations in the area.
ISWAP Attack on Military Base Foiled
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that troops had earlier thwarted a late-night attack by ISWAP fighters on a military installation.
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He said that shortly before midnight on February 5, 2026, ISWAP terrorists attempted to overrun the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Auno, but were decisively repelled by troops of Sector 1 using superior firepower and tactical coordination.
Counter-Offensive in Konduga LGA
Lt. Col. Uba further revealed that on February 9, 2026, troops, working alongside the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a counter-offensive along the Komala axis in Konduga Local Government Area.
The operation forced the terrorists into retreat, with troops pursuing them toward the Gidan Kaji area, where the 16 insurgents were eventually neutralised.
Suspected Terrorist Logistics Suppliers Arrested
On the same day, troops also intercepted suspected ISWAP logistics collaborators around the Bukarti axis, arresting individuals allegedly transporting a large quantity of drugs intended for terrorist fighters.
Kidnapping Attempt Foiled
In a related operation, security forces disrupted a kidnapping attempt along the Buratai–Kamuya–Biu Road at about 5:20 pm on February 9.
Following a rapid pursuit by troops, the terrorists abandoned their captives and fled into nearby bush paths. Two of the victims, Mallam Idris Adamu and Mallam Muhammadu Safiyanu, were safely rescued and later reunited with their families in Buratai.
Military Reaffirms Commitment
The Nigerian military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist elements in the North-East, assuring residents that efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the region remain ongoing.
