Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a multi-front assault by ISWAP terrorists on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area, Borno State, inflicting heavy losses on the insurgents.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 28 March 2026, was met with coordinated ambushes and a deliberate offensive-defensive manoeuvre. Supported by close air support and ISR feedback from the Air Component, the troops forced the terrorists into a disorderly retreat.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the scale of the victory. “Our troops neutralised about 38 terrorists. Eight bodies were recovered immediately, while local sources confirmed over 30 more corpses and abandoned weapons along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis into the Timbuktu Triangle,” he said.
Recovered items included seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, four RPG bombs, and assorted ammunition. No fatalities were recorded among the troops, though one Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was hit by RPG fire. Injured personnel were promptly stabilised.
Residents expressed relief and jubilation at the outcome. “We saw the terrorists fleeing and leaving behind their weapons. The soldiers have shown they are in control, and we feel safer now,” said a community leader in Mandaragirau.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba emphasised that exploitation operations are ongoing to consolidate gains. “Our forces are continuing along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis to recover additional corpses and equipment. This operation underscores our sustained dominance in denying terrorists freedom of action,” he added.
The successful defence has boosted morale among both troops and civilians, reinforcing confidence in Operation HADIN KAI’s ability to secure the region. #Securitynewsalert.com
