Troops of Operation “HADIN KAI” have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, Sector 2 of Borno State, killing 38 insurgents.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East).
According to him, the attack took place in the early hours of Saturday.
Uba explained that the terrorists launched what he described as a “half-hearted” assault on the base.
However, troops quickly swung into action with a coordinated offensive and defensive response, forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray.
He further revealed that the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided crucial air support, alongside Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), which helped troops carry out precise strikes.
The troops did not stop there, they pursued the fleeing terrorists along their escape routes, inflicting even more casualties.
“About 38 terrorists were neutralised, with eight bodies recovered within the immediate engagement area.
“Human intelligence from locals confirmed over 30 additional bodies and weapons abandoned along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis into the Timbuktu Triangle,” he said.
Uba added that this claim was backed by visible blood trails and abandoned equipment spotted by troops during follow-up operations.
He also disclosed that troops recovered seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, four rocket-propelled grenade bombs, and several rounds of ammunition.
On the side of the military, no deaths were recorded. However, one Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was hit by rocket-propelled grenade fire.
“The injured personnel have been stabilised,” he confirmed.
Uba noted that the heavy losses suffered by the insurgents sparked celebrations among local residents.
He said the successful operation further highlights the military’s continued dominance in restricting terrorist activities across the North-East.
He added that troops are still carrying out clearance operations along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis to recover more bodies and strengthen their gains.
The Military High Command has also praised the troops for their bravery and resilience, urging them to maintain the momentum in the ongoing fight to secure the region.
