Troops from Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), the Joint Task Force North East, have successfully thwarted a coordinated terrorist attack on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kangar, situated in Mallam Fatori, Borno State, during the early hours of Tuesday, 4 November 2025.
The attack, launched at approximately 0430 hours by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, involved the deployment of armed drones and mortar fire aimed at the base’s defensive positions. The troops, bolstered by the Main Force from the Battalion under Sector 3, displayed remarkable bravery and tactical prowess to repel the assault.
Despite the initial use of drones and indirect fire, the troops held their ground, engaging the terrorists in a fierce firefight, supported by close air support from Nigerien Fighter Ground Attack platforms.
Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordination of the joint forces, the terrorists retreated in disarray into the waterways of the Tumbuns, evacuating several casualties.
A post-battle assessment of the area confirmed the neutralisation of six terrorists and the recovery of the following items: five AK-47 rifles; eight AK-47 rifle magazines; 258 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition; five RPG bombs; four armed drone bombs; five 36-type hand grenades; two bandoliers; and one Android phone.
Subsequent air interdiction by the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with the Nigerien Air Force, further neutralised additional terrorists during their retreat.
A few personnel from the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI and some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained minor injuries during the engagement. They have since been evacuated by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) platforms for medical attention and are all in a stable condition. The MNJTF also provided Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) support to enhance situational awareness for the ground troops.
Exploitation operations are ongoing in the waterways and surrounding areas to track fleeing terrorists and deny them freedom of movement. The troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high as they continue to assert dominance in the region.
The Military High Command commended the gallant troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism in the face of adversity. The Nigerian Armed Forces remain dedicated to restoring peace and security in the North East region through sustained and coordinated operations.
