Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded fresh operational successes against insurgents under Operation DESERT SANITY, destroying multiple terrorist camps, recovering arms and logistics, and repelling coordinated attacks in the Timbuktu Triangle.
According to the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the operations were conducted on Sunday, 18 January 2026, following intelligence-led planning.
“Troops advanced from their harbour area and carried out deliberate operations across identified terrorist enclaves, including Chilaria, Garin Faruk and Abirma,” he said. “The operation was supported by the Air Component of OPHK, which provided persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance coverage, enabling real-time tracking of terrorist movement and enhancing the precision of ground operations.”
Lieutenant Colonel Uba disclosed that the coordinated air-ground effort helped deter insurgent reinforcements and boosted the confidence of advancing troops.
He said the operation led to the recovery of several items of military and logistical value, including Baofeng radios, mobile phones, five AK-47 magazines, rounds of 7.62×39mm special ammunition, 7.62mm NATO belted ammunition, Boko Haram/ISWAP flags, links of 12.7×108mm ammunition, diesel-powered grinding machines, large quantities of medical supplies, bags of grains, a pick-up truck, underground logistics storage facilities, and a Petroleum, Oil and Lubricant (POL) dump.
“These recoveries have further degraded the operational and logistical capabilities of the terrorists,” he said.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba added that the advancing troops came under armed drone attacks by insurgents around midday.
“Despite the attack, our troops maintained momentum and continued the offensive,” he said. “A second attempt by the terrorists in the evening was also decisively repelled, forcing them to withdraw and reaffirming our dominance of the area.”
He noted that troop morale remains high despite sustained engagements, adding that fighting efficiency has been maintained.
“The general security situation is calm but unpredictable,” he said. “Troops remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness.”
The military high command, he said, has reaffirmed that operations will continue.
“Our troops remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorist threats, protect civilians, and restore lasting peace and stability to the North East,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba stated.
