Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) thwarted an attempted attack by ISWAP fighters on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau in Sector 2 on Saturday. The attempted attack was met with a coordinated response from the troops, forcing the insurgents to retreat and resulting in significant casualties.
Details from the Media Information Officer, OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, reveal that the troops employed a combination of ambush tactics and structured defensive measures during the encounter. This disrupted the attackers' advance, compelling them to withdraw in disarray. Air support units attached to Operation HADIN KAI complemented the ground operation by providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, alongside targeted strikes that reinforced troop actions.
The troops pursued fleeing fighters, inflicting additional losses as they extended the engagement beyond the initial contact point. According to Uba, a total of about 38 terrorists were neutralised, with 8 bodies recovered within the immediate engagement area. Human intelligence from locals confirmed over 30 additional terrorists' bodies and weapons strewn along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis into the Timbuktu Triangle.
The scale of enemy losses has triggered widespread jubilation among local communities, highlighting the sustained dominance of OPHK troops in denying terrorists freedom of action. The troops have continued exploitation operations along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis to recover bodies, secure the area, and recover abandoned equipment.
The bravery of the troops in thwarting the ISWAP attack on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau is a testament to the resilience of Nigeria's military. The successful operation has not only saved lives but also sent a strong message to terrorists that they will not be tolerated in the region. The troops' ability to adapt and employ effective tactics has resulted in significant losses for the insurgents, showcasing the military's commitment to protecting the nation. The people of Borno State can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that their safety is being prioritised. The sustained dominance of Operation HADIN KAI troops in denying terrorists freedom of action is a significant step towards achieving peace and stability in the region.
