Troops Crush Terror Plots in North-East, Multiple Attacks Foiled, Key Suspects Arrested

TROOPS of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Joint Task Force North-East, have recorded a series of decisive victories against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, thwarting multiple attacks and securing critical locations across Borno and Adamawa States between 25 and 31 October, 2025.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, the troops demonstrated “unwavering courage and professionalism” in neutralising terrorist threats, dismantling smuggling networks, and maintaining stability in volatile areas of the region.

On 25 October, troops foiled a major terrorist attempt to invade Kukawa Town using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED). Despite the vehicle’s armoured protection, the troops engaged fiercely with RPG fire before a T-55 tank neutralised the explosive-laden vehicle, averting what could have been a catastrophic attack. A ten-year-old girl sustained minor injuries and has since received medical attention.

In Dikwa–Ajiri and adjoining areas, troops working with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) safely discovered and disposed of three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), preventing possible sabotage along vital supply routes.

Similarly, on 29 October, troops of 192 Battalion (Main), in collaboration with CJTF, conducted a successful ambush that neutralised two terrorists and forced others to flee into the Mandara Mountains.

Recovered items confirmed terrorists’ continued use of bicycles and food stockpiles for mobility and sustenance.

In a separate night operation on 30 October, troops of 202 Battalion, supported by ten members of the Volunteer Force, engaged terrorists attempting to infiltrate from the Gezuwa axis towards Sambisa Forest along the Bama–Konduga route. The insurgents fled in disarray after a fierce exchange of gunfire.

Meanwhile, under Operation Strangulation, troops of 232 Battalion (Tactical) intercepted a drum of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and two motorcycles used for illegal conveyance at Fillin Ball and Sebore in Mubi South, Adamawa State.

The smugglers abandoned the contraband and fled on sighting the troops.

Further reinforcing security in Adamawa, troops of 144 Battalion and Sector 4 Special Forces, acting on credible intelligence, arrested five suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP collaborators in Sabon Gari village, Madagali Local Government Area.

The suspects — identified as Musa Mohammed (38), Gambo Musa (17), Mallam Mohammed (17), Abu Danjuma (27), and Umar Banna (26) — were found with military camouflage, ammunition, and drugs. Preliminary investigations are underway.

The Air Component Command of OPHK provided crucial aerial support throughout the week-long operations, delivering precision strikes and enhancing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) coverage.

These coordinated ground-air efforts led to the elimination of several terrorists, recovery of weapons, and seizure of vital logistics materials.

A follow-up operation on 31 October near Sambisa Forest yielded the recovery of an AK-47 rifle with eight rounds of ammunition, 90 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, four bicycles, and the body of a neutralised terrorist. No casualties were recorded among troops.

Commending the gallant soldiers, the Military High Command lauded their bravery and commitment to restoring peace in the region.

It reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ determination to “completely eradicate terrorism, dismantle insurgent networks, and safeguard vulnerable communities” across the North-East.