Army JTF dislodges Boko Haram/ISWAP in major offensive, neutralises 21 terrorists
…dismantles terrorist camp, destroys logistics infrastructure in Adamawa
The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has recorded another significant operational success following a well-coordinated joint offensive against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the Kopre Mountain general area of Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The operation, which is part of ongoing search and rescue efforts, resulted in the neutralisation of more than 21 terrorists and the destruction of their camp and associated logistics infrastructure.
In a statement, the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the operation was conducted following credible intelligence on the location of the terrorists.
He said a joint force comprising the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) Tactical Team and newly inducted troops of 226 Battalion, recently deployed to Sector 4, Adamawa State, under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, carried out a stealth operation into the target area.
According to him, the troops successfully navigated the difficult and rugged terrain, penetrated the terrorists’ enclave and launched a precision strike on the camp in the early hours of August 27, 2026.
Goni said the operation was conducted as part of sustained efforts to locate and rescue victims held by terrorist elements, including persons abducted from Mussa community in May 2026 and the Lassa schoolchildren abducted in June 2026.
He said troops engaged the terrorists in two separate encounters after closing in on the camp, adding that more than 21 terrorists were neutralised during the fierce engagements, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
The joint force subsequently dominated the area, dismantled the entire terrorist camp and destroyed associated logistics infrastructure, further degrading the terrorists’ operational capability in the area.
During the exploitation of the location, troops destroyed several motorcycles, bicycles and jerrycans containing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which were believed to have been used to support the terrorists’ logistics and mobility.
The troops also recovered several AK-47 rifles, AK-47 magazines and a substantial quantity of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
The statement said the successful operation underscored the sustained operational tempo, tactical proficiency, intelligence exploitation capability and combat effectiveness of the joint force.
It added that the operation further demonstrated the ability of troops to project combat power into difficult and restrictive terrain, dismantle terrorist enclaves and deny terrorist elements freedom of action across the theatre of operations.
The Military High Command commended the gallantry, professionalism, resilience and seamless coordination displayed by the ONSA Tactical Team and troops of Operation HADIN KAI during the operation.
It said the decisive action reflected the determination of the Armed Forces and other security stakeholders to relentlessly pursue and degrade terrorist elements wherever they seek refuge.
The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive, intelligence-driven operations aimed at locating and rescuing abducted persons, dismantling terrorist strongholds, degrading their logistics and fighting capabilities, and denying them freedom to operate.
The Theatre further reassured the public that ongoing operations would be sustained until all abducted persons are located and rescued, while efforts continue towards restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
