By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a terrorist infiltration attack on a military location in Monguno, Borno State, but lost a commanding officer and six soldiers after their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device while responding to the incident.
The attack occurred late on April 12, 2026, when terrorists attempted to infiltrate the Charlie 13 location under Sector 3 of the operation.
According to the military, troops engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire and successfully forced them to retreat, maintaining control of the strategic position.
In an official signed statement, the Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Sani Uba, said the troops demonstrated resilience and professionalism during the encounter, preventing the terrorists from overrunning the location.
However, tragedy struck shortly after the confrontation when the Commanding Officer moved toward the troops’ location to personally assess the operational situation.
“Regrettably, the Commanding Officer, while courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel,” Uba stated.
The military spokesman described the fallen officer as a courageous leader whose actions embodied the highest traditions of military command and sacrifice.
He noted that the officer’s decision to move toward his troops even after the immediate threat had been neutralised demonstrated exceptional bravery, devotion to duty and deep concern for the welfare of his men.
“His actions, even after the immediate threat had been neutralised, reflected the highest traditions of military leadership—courage, selfless service and leading from the front,” the statement said.
Uba added that the officer’s willingness to proceed toward the troops despite the danger remained a profound testament to his valour and unwavering commitment to operational effectiveness.
The military authority said the operation was deeply saddened by the loss of the officer and the six soldiers who died in the line of duty, describing them as gallant personnel who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
Operation HADIN KAI said the sacrifice of the fallen heroes would forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served, while reaffirming its commitment to sustaining the fight against terrorism in the North-East.
Caption: Fallen heroes: Troops of Operation HADIN KAI repel a terrorist infiltration attack at Charlie 13 location in Monguno, Borno State, as a commanding officer and six soldiers are killed after their vehicle strikes an improvised explosive device while responding to the incident.
