Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded significant operational successes against terrorist groups across the North-East, neutralising improvised explosive devices (IEDs), disrupting logistics networks and recovering various items linked to insurgent activities in a series of operations conducted between June 16 and 19, 2026.
According to Acting Military Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI Maiduguri Captain Mohammed Goni, troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team, working in collaboration with the Quick Reaction Force (QRF), acted on intelligence provided by local residents regarding the planting of IEDs along the Biu–Buratai Road on June 16.
The troops immediately launched a fighting patrol to the area, where they discovered and safely detonated five IED cylinders allegedly emplaced by terrorists along the route. The operation was completed without casualties, and the troops subsequently returned to base.
In a related development, troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion engaged suspected terrorists along the Miyanti–Ngoshe axis on June 17 while returning from a picketing mission in Kirawa.
Military sources disclosed that the troops encountered an unconfirmed number of insurgents riding on about 60 motorcycles. The terrorists reportedly opened fire first, but the soldiers responded with sustained and superior firepower, forcing the insurgents to retreat towards Miyanti.
Although the number of casualties inflicted on the terrorists could not be immediately confirmed, troops recovered 817 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, three motorcycles, two solar panels, 102 sachets of salt, a motorcycle tyre, two motorcycle tubes and several other motorcycle spare parts believed to be intended for terrorist operations.
On June 19, troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison recorded another breakthrough following intelligence reports on terrorist logistics activities.
During a routine stop-and-search operation at the brigade’s checkpoint, soldiers intercepted a cyan Volkswagen vehicle with registration number FGF-357-AG and arrested two suspected logistics suppliers linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The suspects were identified as Mohammed Bukar, also known as “Dege”, aged 35, and his apprentice, Iliyasu Abdullahi, aged 26. They were allegedly transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and relief materials intended for terrorist elements.
The military said the operations underscore the determination of Operation HADIN KAI troops to deny terrorists freedom of movement, dismantle their support networks and enhance security across the region.
It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that civilian cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
