…the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI played a decisive role in neutralising the attackers.
Borno, Nigeria — The iNews Times reports that troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, Sector 2 of Borno State, killing no fewer than 38 insurgents in the process.
The fierce encounter, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, marked yet another confrontation between Nigerian forces and insurgent elements seeking to destabilise the North-East region. According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), the terrorists launched what he described as a “half-hearted” assault on the Forward Operating Base.
Military authorities disclosed that the attack was swiftly met with a coordinated offensive-defensive response by troops of Operation HADIN KAI. The counter-operation, supported by strategic planning and superior firepower, forced the insurgents into a disorderly retreat within a short time.
The iNews Times gathered that the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI played a decisive role in neutralising the attackers. Air support, coupled with real-time Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), enhanced the precision of strikes against the advancing terrorists. The integration of ground and air assets reportedly ensured that the insurgents were not only repelled but pursued along their withdrawal routes.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba confirmed that approximately 38 terrorists were neutralised during and after the encounter. While eight bodies were recovered within the immediate vicinity of the engagement area, credible human intelligence sources from surrounding communities indicated that more than 30 additional bodies were sighted along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis stretching into the notorious Timbuktu Triangle.
According to the military spokesperson, this intelligence was corroborated by blood trails and abandoned equipment discovered by troops during follow-up exploitation operations. Security forces also recovered seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, four rocket-propelled grenade bombs and assorted rounds of ammunition from the scene and along the escape corridor.
Despite the intensity of the firefight, no fatalities were recorded among Nigerian troops. However, one Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was struck by rocket-propelled grenade fire during the exchange. The injured personnel were immediately stabilised and are reportedly receiving appropriate medical care.
The successful defence of the Mandaragirau Forward Operating Base underscores the sustained operational momentum of Operation HADIN KAI in Borno State and the broader North-East theatre. Military authorities emphasised that the ability of troops to repel the ISWAP attack without loss of life reflects improved coordination, enhanced intelligence capabilities and strengthened combat readiness.
Residents in nearby communities were said to have expressed relief and jubilation following news of the insurgents’ heavy losses. For many locals who have endured years of insurgency-related violence, the outcome of the encounter represents a reassuring sign of continued military dominance in the region.
Security analysts note that the Timbuktu Triangle and adjoining corridors have long served as strategic withdrawal routes for insurgents operating in Borno. The aggressive pursuit of fleeing terrorists along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis demonstrates a deliberate effort by Operation HADIN KAI to deny ISWAP freedom of movement and safe haven.
Further exploitation operations remain ongoing, according to the military, with troops combing the area to recover additional weapons, confirm casualty figures and consolidate territorial gains. Authorities maintain that sustained pressure on insurgent elements is critical to preventing regrouping attempts and future coordinated attacks.
The Military High Command has commended the gallantry, resilience and professionalism displayed by troops during the operation. In its message to personnel, the command urged forces under Operation HADIN KAI to sustain the operational tempo and remain vigilant in safeguarding the security interests of the North-East region.
The latest development adds to a series of engagements in which Operation HADIN KAI has recorded tactical successes against ISWAP and other terrorist factions. While sporadic attacks continue to pose threats in parts of Borno State, military officials insist that the operational environment increasingly favours security forces.
As the security situation evolves, The iNews Times will continue to monitor and report developments surrounding Operation HADIN KAI and counter-insurgency efforts across the North-East, providing verified updates to readers in Nigeria and beyond.
