Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have thwarted a coordinated ambush by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists along the Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains axis, killing no fewer than 12 insurgents, including two senior commanders.
The encounter occurred on January 22, 2026, during Operation DESERT SANITY V, when the terrorists attempted to ambush troops with roadside improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and heavy gunfire.
According to the military, troops of Sector 1 OPHK responded swiftly with superior firepower, neutralising 10 terrorists on the spot. Among those killed were two senior commanders identified as Basulhu and Ubaida.
A statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said follow-up pursuit and exploitation of the area led to the recovery of a cache of arms, ammunition and logistics.
“Items recovered include three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action rifle, five motorcycles, two hand grenades, two Baofeng radios, 12 AK-47 magazines, a rocket-propelled grenade charger, detonation cords, batteries, bandoliers, camel bags, as well as iron bars and other IED-making accessories,” the statement said.
On a separate offensive axis, troops of Sector 1 OPHK also made contact with terrorists around the Malkube area, where two insurgents were neutralised without any casualties to their own troops.
The military disclosed that additional AK-47 rifles, ammunition and communication devices were recovered during the encounter.
Earlier the same day, another battle group from Sector 1 engaged Boko Haram/ISWAP elements attempting to infiltrate Nigeria from Cameroon through the Galakura axis. The terrorists were forced to retreat in disarray.
“Exploitation of the area yielded more insurgent equipment and supplies, including two motorcycles, further denying the terrorists freedom of action,” the statement added.
The military noted that troops’ morale and combat efficiency remain high, assuring that operations would be sustained across the entire North East region.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and urged them to maintain the current operational tempo.
“The troops have once again demonstrated courage, professionalism and commitment in the fight against terrorism,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba stated.
