By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), operating under the broader framework of Operation DESERT SANITY V, have delivered a decisive strike against Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists along the Sambisa and Mandara Mountains axis on 22 January 2026, significantly degrading insurgent capabilities in the region.
In an official statement, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, disclosed that around 0930 hours, insurgents launched a well-coordinated ambush using Roadside Improvised Explosive Devices (RSIEDs) and heavy gunfire targeting Nigerian Army personnel. Troops under Sector 1 swiftly responded with superior firepower, neutralizing ten terrorists, including two senior commanders identified as Basulhu and Ubaida.
Subsequent follow-up operations led to the recovery of a substantial cache of insurgent weapons and equipment, including three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action rifle, five motorcycles, two hand grenades, two Baofeng radios, twelve AK-47 magazines, a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) charger, detonation cords, batteries, bandoliers, camel bags, iron bars, and other IED accessories.
On a separate operational axis near the Malkube area, Sector 1 troops engaged additional BH/ISWAP elements, neutralizing two insurgents without any casualties among personnel. Exploitation of the area yielded more AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and communication devices, further weakening the terrorists’ operational capacity.
Earlier in the day, another battle group from Sector 1 repelled attempted infiltrations by BH/ISWAP fighters crossing from Cameroon near Galakura, forcing them into disarray and retreat. Troops recovered two motorcycles and other insurgent supplies, denying the terrorists freedom of action in key operational areas.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba affirmed that troop morale and combat efficiency remain high, with operations set to continue across the North East region to ensure the persistent degradation of insurgent networks and to maintain the safety of civilian populations.
This latest success underscores the Nigerian Army’s sustained resolve to eliminate terrorism and restore peace and security across affected regions.
