Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have achieved significant success in ongoing counter-terrorism operations, neutralising several terrorists and securing key locations across Borno and Adamawa States between 25 and 31 October.
The media information officer for OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, stated in a release on Saturday that the operation thwarted multiple terrorist attacks, dismantled logistics networks, and prevented planned assaults on civilian communities.
Mr Uba noted that on 25 October, troops thwarted an attempt by terrorists to attack Kukawa town using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). The explosive-laden vehicle, which had been engaged with rocket-propelled grenades, was subsequently destroyed by a T-55 tank, averting a potential tragedy.
“A 10-year-old girl who sustained minor injuries during the incident received prompt medical attention at a nearby facility,” he added.
In another operation, troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), discovered and safely neutralised three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the Dikwa–Ajiri axis, preventing possible disruption of major supply routes.
Similarly, on 29 October, troops of the 192 Battalion (Main), working alongside the CJTF, conducted an ambush in the Gwoza–Limankara area, neutralising two terrorists and recovering bicycles and food items used for logistical support by the insurgents, Mr Uba reported.
On 30 October, troops of the 202 Battalion, supported by members of the Volunteer Force, executed a successful night ambush along the Bama–Konduga Main Supply Route, engaging terrorists attempting to cross from the Gezuwa axis towards Sambisa Forest.
“The insurgents fled in disarray after coming under heavy fire,” he stated.
Mr Uba further reported that troops from the 232 Battalion (tactical), operating under Operation Strangulation, intercepted smugglers transporting a drum of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and two motorcycles used for illegal transportation at Fillin Ball and Sebore in the Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa. The suspects fled upon sighting the troops, abandoning the items, which were taken into custody for further investigation.
The theatre spokesman also indicated that troops from the 144 Battalion and Sector 4 Special Forces, acting on credible intelligence, arrested five suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP collaborators in Sabon Gari village within the Madagali Local Government Area.
The suspects have been identified as Musa Mohammed (38), Gambo Musa (17), Mallam Mohammed (17), Abu Danjuma (27), and Umar Banna (26).
“Recovered items included a desert camouflage uniform, a round of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition, and 50 wraps of Indian hemp found in an abandoned hut. Preliminary investigations are ongoing,” he explained.
Throughout this period, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI provided close air support through precision strikes and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, enhancing the effectiveness and battlefield awareness of ground troops.
A follow-up exploitation conducted in the early hours of 31 October led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 90 rounds of linked 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition, four bicycles, and the corpse of a neutralised terrorist. No casualties were recorded among the troops, he added.
Mr Uba stated that the Military High Command has commended the troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and commitment to restoring peace and stability in the North-East.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to the total defeat of terrorism and insurgency, emphasising that ongoing operations will continue to focus on dismantling terrorist cells, blocking their supply routes, and protecting vulnerable communities.
