Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) engaged fleeing terrorists in Borno State on Tuesday, resulting in casualties on both sides.
The encounter followed clearance operations conducted by the military across key terrorist strongholds, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas.
Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force Northeast, disclosed the development in a statement on Wednesday, noting that many terrorists were neutralised during the operations. “Troops of OPHK have sustained their advance into the Timbuktu Triangle, recording significant operational gains and further degrading terrorist networks operating within the area,” he said.
Uba explained that troops made intermittent contact with fleeing insurgent elements, engaging them with high volumes of fire, which led to the neutralisation of several terrorists.
During the operation on 20 January 2026, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) approximately six kilometres north of Chiralia. Vigilant action resulted in the successful neutralisation of one VBIED, while the second breached a defensive position, affecting some logistics platforms. “In the course of this attack, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price, while others sustained injuries,” he said.
The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, with Nigerian Air Force platforms providing overwatch to ensure safe extraction and the continued neutralisation of insurgents.
Lt. Col. Uba further revealed that troops discovered mass graves containing approximately 20 terrorist bodies killed during encounters in the Timbuktu Triangle, a testament to the heavy losses suffered by the insurgents. “This discovery exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits terrorist propaganda narratives,” he added.
He emphasised that across the theatre, the security situation remains generally stable, morale among troops remains high, and operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing insurgent elements. “Troops of OPHK remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East,” the statement concluded.
Elijah Adeyemi
