By Bavoriat Clara
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have repelled an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists and launched a follow-up counter-offensive that led to the neutralisation of 16 insurgents.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the operation significantly degraded terrorist capabilities, disrupted their logistics network, and reaffirmed the task force’s resolve to dismantle terrorist elements across the North East.
According to the statement, the terrorists attempted to attack the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Auno on 5 February 2026, shortly before midnight. Troops of Sector 1, however, repelled the assault with what was described as disciplined firepower and tactical precision.
Following the failed attack, troops in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) launched a counter-offensive on 9 February 2026 along the Komala axis in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State. The troops pursued the retreating insurgents up to the Gidan Kaji axis, neutralising 16 terrorists and forcing several others to flee with injuries.
During the operation, troops recovered over 20 bicycles, weapons, and a large cache of logistics items and supplies believed to be critical to terrorist operations. On the same day, troops also arrested suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers along the Bukarti axis who were allegedly conveying a large quantity of drugs intended for the terrorists.
In a related development, troops foiled a kidnap attempt along the Buratai–Kamuya road after detecting suspicious terrorist movement in the area. The troops pursued the assailants, compelling them to abandon their captives and flee into nearby bushes. Two victims, Mallam Idris Adamu and Mallam Muhammadu Safiyanu, were rescued and reunited with their families in Buratai.
Additionally, troops responded to a distress call along the Chibok–Damboa axis on 9 February 2026 and successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims.
Operation HADIN KAI said the operations underscore its continued commitment to protecting civilians and supporting humanitarian efforts while sustaining offensive actions against terrorist groups in the region.
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