By Nkechi Eze
Following the neutralisation of over 50 terrorists in a previous encounter at the Katarko axis, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have recorded another major success in the North East, neutralising an additional 10 insurgents and recovering a significant cache of weapons and equipment during an ambush along the Gamboru–Dikwa–Marte axis in Borno State.
In what military sources described as a precision night operation, troops of Sector 1 from the 24 Task Force Brigade under Operation Hadin Kai successfully foiled a terrorist attempt to infiltrate Gamboru Ngala from the Flatari axis. After suffering heavy casualties, the terrorists attempted to divert towards Dikwa but were once again ambushed and decisively engaged by the gallant troops along the Dikwa–Marte road.
In an official statement, the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that at approximately 23:50 hours on 25 October 2025, while manning a pre-established ambush position, the troops identified and engaged the hostile elements. He explained that the unit delivered heavy and accurate suppressive fire, forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray under intense pressure from the troops’ superior firepower.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba further stated that at first light, after a period of limited visibility, the troops launched a systematic clearance operation in the area. The aftermath of the engagement confirmed that 10 insurgents had been neutralised. A comprehensive search of the vicinity led to the recovery of a large cache of arms, ammunition, and operational equipment.
Recovered items included five AK-47 rifles, one PKT machine gun, three locally-made dane guns, two fabricated pistols, five AK-47 magazines loaded with 7.62mm special rounds, a huge cache of 7.62x54mm linked ammunition, and boxes of cartridges. The troops also recovered two motorcycles, two bicycles, one radio, a dane gun barrel, a water flask, a raincoat, a blanket, and assorted charms believed to have been used by the insurgents during the encounter.
The Military High Command has commended the troops for their gallantry, vigilance, and tactical proficiency throughout the operation. It noted that the success of the ambush underscores the growing efficiency and effectiveness of ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North East.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Hadin Kai to sustaining offensive actions against remnants of terrorist groups, protecting civilian populations, and consolidating the progress made towards restoring peace, security, and stability in Borno and other parts of the North East.
