BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, DECEMBER 21, 2025 | 06:27 PM

Troops of Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded multiple operational successes against Boko Haram and ISWAP elements through coordinated patrols, arrests, and ambush operations in Borno State.

The operations were conducted under Operations Desert Sanity IV and V between December 17 and 21, across key routes and communities known for terrorist logistics movements.

On December 17, troops of 25 Brigade discovered an improvised explosive device during a main supply route patrol along the Damboa–Komala axis.

The device was secured and safely detonated, restoring safety for troops and civilian commuters using the route.

In a separate intelligence-led operation on December 19, troops deployed at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri–Bama Road intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle suspected of conveying logistics supplies to terrorists operating around Kirawa Ward in Gwoza Local Government Area.

Two suspects were arrested, while items recovered included food items, energy drinks, mobile phones, identity documents, cash in naira and CFA, and other personal effects.

The suspects, vehicle, and recovered items were handed over to military intelligence for further investigation.

On December 21, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working with the Civilian Joint Task Force and local hunters, carried out a long-range ambush between Sojiri and Kayamla villages following intelligence on terrorist logistics movement.

Suspected terrorists arrived at the location on bicycles while transporting supplies, confirming earlier intelligence reports.

Troops engaged the group, neutralizing 17 suspected terrorists, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

Recovered items from the ambush included bicycles, food items, drugs and medical supplies, detergents, clothing materials, bicycle tires, torchlights, and assorted weapons with ammunition.

The troops withdrew safely after the operation, while follow-up and exploitation efforts are ongoing to deny insurgents freedom of movement in the area.

The Military High Command commended the troops for their efforts and urged them to sustain the operational tempo.

Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to disrupting terrorist logistics networks and improving security across the North East.