By Chimezie Godfrey
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a military formation in Borno State, neutralising at least 38 insurgents.
The Defence authorities disclosed that the attack targeted the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau in Sector 2 in the early hours of Saturday.
According to a statement by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the troops responded with a combination of ambush tactics and defensive firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat.
“The troops engaged the attackers with well-coordinated ambushes and a deliberate offensive-defensive response that forced them into a disorderly withdrawal,” he said.
He explained that air support from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai provided close air support and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), which enhanced precision targeting.
Operational data indicate that eight terrorist bodies were recovered at the scene, while additional casualties were recorded along their withdrawal routes.
“Human intelligence confirms that over 30 additional terrorists were neutralised along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis extending into the Timbuktu Triangle,” Uba stated.
The military also recovered significant arms and ammunition, including seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines and four rocket-propelled grenade bombs.
Further evidence of heavy losses included blood trails and abandoned equipment discovered during exploitation operations.
Despite the scale of the attack, the military recorded no fatalities, although an MRAP vehicle was hit, resulting in injuries to some personnel.
“The injured personnel were promptly stabilised, and operations continued,” the statement added.
Security sources noted that the failed attack reflects increasing desperation among insurgent groups facing sustained military pressure.
Newsdiaryonline reports that in nearby communities were reported to have celebrated the outcome, reflecting growing confidence in the military’s ability to provide security.
The Defence authorities emphasised that follow-up operations are ongoing to consolidate gains and recover additional materials.
“The success underscores the sustained dominance of Operation Hadin Kai troops in denying terrorists freedom of action,” Uba said.