By Joy Odor Maiduguri | November 1, 2025
In a sweeping week of counterterrorism triumphs, troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have neutralized multiple terrorist threats, dismantled insurgent networks, and secured key routes across Borno and Adamawa States, a major boost in Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP remnants.
Between October 25 and 31, the Joint Task Force North East repelled coordinated attacks, foiled a vehicle-borne explosive assault in Kukawa, intercepted smuggling operations, and captured key suspects attempting to infiltrate civilian communities.
According to military sources, troops’ rapid and precise responses prevented what could have been a devastating wave of attacks on both military installations and civilian settlements.
The fiercest encounter came on October 25, when insurgents attempted to storm Kukawa Town with a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED).
Despite the armored vehicle withstanding rocket-propelled grenade fire, it was destroyed by a T-55 tank, averting a potential catastrophe.
The attackers fled after sustaining heavy fire. A ten-year-old girl suffered minor injuries and was treated immediately.
Joint Task Force (CJTF), troops discovered and neutralized three IEDs along the Dikwa–Ajiri axis, safeguarding critical supply corridors.
Days later, soldiers of 192 Battalion ambushed insurgents near Gwoza–Limankara, killing two and recovering supplies and bicycles, a reminder of terrorists’ continued reliance on rudimentary logistics.
In another daring nighttime operation on October 30, troops of 202 Battalion and local volunteers ambushed militants crossing from the Gezuwa axis into Sambisa Forest.
The firefight forced the insurgents to flee, abandoning their weapons and supplies.
In Adamawa, under Operation Strangulation, troops of 232 Battalion intercepted smugglers transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Mubi South, seizing two motorcycles and a fuel drum.
The suspects escaped, but the materials were confiscated for investigation.
A day later, acting on intelligence reports, troops of 144 Battalion and Sector 4 Special Forces stormed Sabon Gari village in Madagali LGA, arresting five suspects linked to planned terrorist infiltration.
Among the items recovered were a desert camouflage uniform, ammunition, and 50 wraps of Indian hemp from an abandoned hideout.
The Air Component Command provided precision air support, deploying ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) assets that guided ground troops and enhanced operational accuracy.
Follow-up sweeps on October 31 near Sambisa Forest recovered an insurgent’s corpse, an AK-47 rifle, 98 rounds of ammunition, and four bicycles with no casualties among Nigerian forces.
The Military High Command lauded the troops for their courage, discipline, and tactical efficiency, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to eradicating terrorism and stabilizing the North East.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces remain resolute in dismantling terrorist strongholds, disrupting supply lines, and restoring lasting peace across the region,” the statement read.
Analysts say the latest string of operations signals renewed intensity in the military’s counterinsurgency campaign, one increasingly defined by precision, inter-agency synergy, and sustained pressure on enemy networks.
