By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
TROOPS of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, have successfully neutralised several terrorists, thwarted multiple attacks, and secured key locations across Borno and Adamawa States in a series of coordinated operations between 25 and 31 October 2025.
According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for OPHK, the troops demonstrated exceptional gallantry and professionalism in the face of renewed terrorist offensives, effectively repelling insurgent advances and safeguarding civilian lives.
On 25 October, troops foiled an attempt by terrorists to infiltrate Kukawa Town using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED).
The attackers were engaged with rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) fire before a T-55 tank neutralised the VBIED, preventing a catastrophic explosion.
The assailants fled after sustained gunfire, though a 10-year-old girl sustained minor injuries and was promptly treated at a medical facility.
In the Dikwa–Ajiri axis, troops working alongside the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) discovered and safely disposed of three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), averting potential sabotage along major supply routes.
Similarly, on 29 October, troops of 192 Battalion, in conjunction with the CJTF, ambushed and neutralised two terrorists in the Mandara Mountains area, recovering items that confirmed continued reliance on bicycles and local food supplies by insurgents.
The following day, troops of 202 Battalion, supported by 10 members of the Volunteer Force, launched a successful night ambush on terrorists attempting to cross from the Gezuwa axis towards the Sambisa Forest along the Bama–Konduga Main Supply Route.
The terrorists were forced to flee in disarray under heavy fire.
In a separate anti-smuggling operation under Operation Strangulation, troops of 232 Battalion (Tactical) intercepted a drum of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and two motorcycles being used to convey the product illegally in Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The suspects abandoned the items and fled upon sighting the troops.
On 30 October, following credible intelligence, troops of 144 Battalion and Sector 4 Special Forces, supported by Hybrid Forces and local hunters, conducted a cordon-and-search operation in Sabon Gari, Madagali Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of five Boko Haram/ISWAP suspects.
Those arrested include Musa Mohammed (38), Gambo Musa (17), Mallam Mohammed (17), Abu Danjuma (27), and Umar Banna (26).
Recovered items included a desert camouflage uniform, one round of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition, and 50 wraps of Indian hemp found in an abandoned hut.
Further operations conducted within a three-kilometre radius of Sambisa Forest on 31 October led to the recovery of one terrorist’s corpse, an AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 90 rounds of 7.62mm × 54mm linked ammunition, and four bicycles.
Throughout the operations, the Air Component Command of OPHK provided precision air strikes and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support, ensuring the success of ground operations.
The Military High Command has commended the troops for their bravery and renewed commitment to restoring peace and stability in the North East.
The Nigerian Armed Forces reaffirmed their resolve to sustain the offensive, dismantle terrorist cells, and protect vulnerable communities from insurgent threats.
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