…as troops record major operational gains, foil VBIED attacks in timbuktu triangle
By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have continued their sustained offensive in the Timbuktu Triangle, recording significant operational successes and further weakening terrorist networks operating within the area. The latest gains underscore the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s determination to dismantle insurgent strongholds and restore lasting peace across the North East.
In an official statement, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that troops successfully advanced into and dominated key terrorist locations within the Timbuktu Triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. During the operations, troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorist elements and engaged them decisively, resulting in the neutralisation of several insurgents.
According to the statement, on 20 January 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area approximately six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). Through vigilance and swift response, one of the VBIEDs was successfully neutralised. The second VBIED breached the defensive position and affected some logistics platforms.
In the course of the incident, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price in the line of duty, while others sustained injuries. The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital for treatment. Throughout the evacuation process, Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component, working in close synergy with other Nigerian Army air assets, provided continuous aerial overwatch to ensure the safety of ground forces and facilitate the neutralisation of additional terrorist elements.
Further highlighting the scale of losses suffered by the terrorists, troops later uncovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies killed during encounters with troops in the Timbuktu Triangle and buried by their cohorts. The discovery, according to the military, exposes the extent of terrorist casualties and further undermines insurgent propaganda narratives.
Across the wider theatre of operations, the security situation remains generally stable. Troops’ morale and combat efficiency remain high as operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, the statement reaffirmed, remain resolute in their commitment to protecting civilians, dismantling terrorist networks, and restoring peace and security across the North East.
