Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled coordinated attacks by terrorists suspected to be members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on several military positions in Borno and Yobe states.
The attacks occurred overnight between March 8 and 9, 2026, targeting military locations in Delwa, Goniri, Kukawa, Mainok, and a troop harbour deep inside the Sambisa Forest.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the terrorists launched simultaneous assaults from multiple directions in an attempt to overwhelm military positions.
Despite the intensity of the attacks and heavy firepower used by the insurgents, troops reportedly stood their ground and coordinated defensive operations effectively. Reinforcements and the air component of Operation HADIN KAI also provided timely support during the engagements.
The military said the terrorists eventually retreated after suffering significant casualties, leaving behind several bodies on the battlefield.
During the operation, troops recovered various weapons and equipment abandoned by the fleeing insurgents, including two PKT machine guns, six AK-47 rifles, eight rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, four mortar bombs, and assorted ammunition.
The statement noted that sections of defensive perimeters at Goniri and Kukawa were briefly breached due to the intensity of the firefight, while some base structures and military vehicles sustained damage.
However, the military confirmed that all affected locations remain firmly under the control of Operation HADIN KAI troops. Ground forces, supported by air assets, are currently conducting follow-up operations and cordon-and-search missions in nearby communities where some wounded insurgents are believed to have fled.
The army also disclosed that the clashes led to the loss of some soldiers, including a distinguished officer in Kukawa who died while defending the country and protecting civilians.
The military described the fallen personnel as brave and gallant soldiers whose sacrifice will continue to inspire troops in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Operation HADIN KAI reiterated that troops remain vigilant and committed to sustaining aggressive operations aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action and restoring lasting security across the North-East.
The latest development adds to ongoing military operations targeting insurgent hideouts linked to ISWAP and Boko Haram within the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas.
ADVERTISEMENTS
