In a renewed onslaught against insurgency in the North-East, troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) under Operation Hadin Kai have successfully neutralised two terrorists linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during a tactical ambush in Borno State.
According to military sources, the ambush occurred around Hudugum village in the Hambagda area, along the Gwoza–Limankara road, at about 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The operation, executed by the 192 Battalion, followed credible intelligence that a group of terrorists was moving logistics supplies along the route.
When contact was established, the troops swiftly opened fire, killing two terrorists instantly while others fled with gunshot wounds toward the foothills of the Mandara Mountains, a known hideout for insurgents operating in the Gwoza axis.
Items recovered from the scene include three bicycles, six wrappers, a small solar panel, blankets, torchlight, containers of Vaseline, seasoning sachets, bush meat, mats, and mobile phone cases—all believed to belong to the insurgents’ logistics team. The operation was carried out without any troop casualties or loss of equipment.
Security analysts say the recovery of light supplies rather than heavy weapons indicates the neutralised group may have been part of the insurgents’ logistics network, tasked with ferrying essential materials to fighters hiding in the mountainous region.
The Gwoza–Limankara axis, a strategic corridor linking several flashpoints in southern Borno, has witnessed repeated ambushes and clearance operations over the years. Military authorities believe cutting off supply routes is essential to weakening the terrorists’ ability to regroup or sustain prolonged attacks.
A senior officer who spoke under anonymity said, “Our troops remain committed to dominating the operational space and denying the terrorists freedom of movement. Every logistics network destroyed is a victory for the troops and the people of Borno.”
The operation comes amid ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to consolidate peace and stability in the region. Residents have reported relative calm in recent months, though sporadic attacks persist around the Mandara Hills, which straddle the border between Nigeria and Cameroon.
Meanwhile, local sources in Gwoza praised the troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) for their vigilance and collaboration, urging continued military presence along major roads to ensure the safety of travellers and farmers returning to their communities.
Despite the success, questions linger over the extent of ISWAP’s remaining networks and the effectiveness of sustained counter-insurgency funding. However, observers believe operations like this demonstrate the Army’s renewed momentum and commitment under Operation Hadin Kai to eradicate terrorism in the region.
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its resolve to continue aggressive patrols, ambushes, and intelligence-led raids to ensure lasting peace in the North-East.