By Our Correspondent
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI have recorded a major operational success against Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (BH/ISWAP) terrorists following intense engagements across the Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains axis.
The encounter occurred on 22 January 2026 under Operation DESERT SANITY V, when insurgents attempted a coordinated ambush using roadside improvised explosive devices (RSIEDs) and heavy gunfire. However, troops of Sector 1 responded swiftly with superior firepower, repelling the attack and neutralising 10 terrorists, including two senior commanders identified as Basulhu and Ubaida.
A follow-up pursuit and exploitation of the area yielded a significant cache of arms and logistics. Items recovered included three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action rifle, five motorcycles, two hand grenades, two Baofeng radios, 12 AK-47 magazines, a rocket-propelled grenade charger, detonation cords, batteries, bandoliers, camel bags, iron bars and assorted IED-making accessories.
On a separate offensive axis around Malkube, Sector 1 troops made further contact with fleeing insurgents, resulting in the neutralisation of two more terrorists without any casualty to own forces. Additional AK-47 rifles, ammunition and communication equipment were recovered during the operation.
Earlier the same day, another battle group from Sector 1 thwarted an infiltration attempt by BH/ISWAP elements moving from Cameroon near Galakura into Nigeria. The terrorists were forced to withdraw in disarray, abandoning equipment and supplies. Two motorcycles were also seized, further restricting the group’s mobility and freedom of action.
Military authorities said troop morale and combat efficiency remain high, with sustained operations ongoing across the entire North East to deny terrorists safe havens and movement corridors.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, urging them to maintain the operational tempo in the ongoing campaign against insurgency.
The development was confirmed in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, on 22 January 2026.
