Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded significant operational successes in the Timbuktu Triangle, sustaining momentum against terrorist elements and further degrading their networks across the area.
Confirming the report, Media Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force( North East) Operation HADIN KAI Lieut. Col. Sani Uba said jn the latest phase of operations, troops advanced into and dominated key terrorist strongholds, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. During the clearance operations, troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorists and engaged them with sustained firepower, resulting in the neutralisation of several insurgents.
On January 20, 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). Through alertness and swift response, one of the VBIEDs was successfully neutralised. The second device, however, breached the defensive position and affected some logistics platforms. In the incident, some soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force lost their lives, while others sustained injuries.
The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital. Throughout the evacuation, Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component, working in synergy with other Nigerian Army air assets, provided continuous overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces, while additional terrorists were neutralised.
Further underscoring the scale of losses suffered by the terrorists, troops later uncovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies killed during encounters in the Timbuktu Triangle and buried by their associates. The discovery highlights the impact of ongoing operations and undermines terrorist propaganda claims.
Across the Theatre of Operations, the security situation remains generally stable. Troops’ morale and combat efficiency remain high, with sustained pressure being maintained on fleeing terrorist elements. The troops of Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed their commitment to protecting civilians, dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
