24 Terrorists Neutralized as Nigerian Troops Intensify Northeast Operations
In a string of coordinated offensive operations between July 4 and 9, 2025, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have eliminated 24 Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents and recovered a cache of weapons and logistics supplies across various locations in the North East theatre.
According to a statement issued by Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, the weeklong operations featured a mix of ambushes, clearance operations, and fighting patrols, many of which were conducted in conjunction with Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), local hunters, and supported by the Air Component of OPHK.
In one ambush conducted on July 4 at Platari, troops intercepted JAS/ISWAP fighters riding bicycles from Sambisa Forest to the Timbuktu Triangle. “The terrorists were immediately subdued with heavy fire, leading to the neutralisation of 3 terrorists.”
Later that day, troops operating around Komala sprang another ambush after receiving intelligence on insurgent movements. Another terrorist was neutralised and items recovered included motorcycles, pesticides, knapsack sprayers, and terrorists’ food items.
Troops also carried out night ambushes in the Kawuri area of Konduga, where 2 logistics couriers were eliminated. Recovered items included packets of salt, detergents, and food seasoning.
The following day, troops intercepted insurgents attempting to infiltrate the Madarari IDP camp in Konduga. One terrorist was killed, and ammunition was recovered. Another fighting patrol to Leno Kura saw three more terrorists eliminated.
Operations intensified on July 6 and 7, with successful ambushes at known crossing points near Ngoshe, Ashigashiya, and Sabsawa village, leading to the deaths of insurgents and the recovery of bicycles, torchlights, batteries, and rubber shoes.
On July 8, OPHK troops in joint operations with the CJTF and under close air support, cleared Bula Marwa, a known ISWAP/JAS enclave. “In the course of the operation, the troops eliminated an insurgent and recovered a gun, terrorists’ uniforms, while their life-supporting structures were destroyed.”
Similar joint operations were conducted in Pambula village, Madagali LGA of Adamawa State, where troops engaged terrorists with “a high volume of fire,” neutralising one fighter and recovering four motorcycles and a weapon.
The operations culminated on July 9 with heavy engagements at Tangalanga and Bula Marwa, leading to the elimination of three insurgents and the destruction of their camp. “Troops recovered six AK 47 rifles, 47 magazines and ninety rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.”
Further ambushes at Ngailda, Manjim, and Wulle villages resulted in the death of six more insurgents and the recovery of additional motorcycles and bicycles.
“The neutralisation of 24 insurgents with close air support underscores the determination, collaboration, and concerted efforts by the troops of OPHK to ensure terrorists are placed on the back foot, thereby creating a conducive environment for socio-economic activities to thrive in the North East region,” Captain Kovangiya added.
