By Nkechi Eze
An air interdiction mission by troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has disrupted a suspected terrorist improvised explosive device (IED)-laying operation, neutralising eight operatives and destroying their vehicle, motorcycles and IED materials.
The operation was part of sustained military offensives against terrorist elements across the North-East, including the Lake Chad area and Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to an official statement signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, the air interdiction successfully prevented the suspected terrorist team from proceeding with its planned activity.
The statement said the operation was among several intelligence-led actions conducted by troops to degrade terrorist capabilities and restrict their freedom of action across the theatre.
In separate engagements on October 26, 2026, troops confronted suspected terrorist elements at various locations in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State following intelligence reports and surveillance observations.
The military said a Battle Damage Assessment indicated that 28 terrorists were neutralised, while six others reportedly sustained injuries during the engagements.
Similarly, on October 28, the Maritime Component, Naval Base Lake Chad, deployed in Baga, conducted offensive operations against terrorist targets within the Lake Chad area.
Preliminary assessments indicated that eight terrorists were neutralised, while 10 others reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries.
The Theatre Command said the operations demonstrated the sustained pressure being exerted on terrorist networks through coordinated, intelligence-led military actions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to degrading terrorist capabilities, denying them freedom of action and protecting communities across the North-East.
The command also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations and efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the region.
