Dare Babalola
In a bold nighttime operation, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) successfully repelled a sophisticated attack by ISWAP terrorists targeting soldiers conducting stabilisation efforts in Mairari, a key area in Guzamala Local Government of Borno State, late Friday.
The swift military response significantly disrupted the group’s offensive capabilities, marking a crucial win in the ongoing efforts to secure the region.
Here’s a rewritten version:
During the assault, the terrorists attempted to breach the military base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). The vigilant troops quickly detected and neutralized both vehicles, thwarting the infiltration attempt and securing the base.
CCTV footage confirmed that several terrorists were killed and others sustained serious injuries. Surviving elements were seen evacuating their dead and wounded from the scene.
According to Lt. Col. Sani Una, the Spokesperson for the theatre command on Saturday, “Following the failed assault, troops from Sector 3 OPHK/MNJTF, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a thorough exploitation of the area in the early hours of 13 December 2025.
“The exploitation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist corpses and a cache of weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during the terrorists’ hasty withdrawal.”
Recovered items include AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, belts of PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical and sustainment items, and other materials indicative of sustained terrorist operations. These recoveries significantly degrade the operational capacity of the terrorists and deny them the ability to operate freely in the area.
Lt. Col. Una also confirmed that the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by the OPHK defensive fire system, causing substantial damage to the road at two separate points. However, no breach of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) was recorded, underscoring the preparedness and resilience of the troops.
Troops are currently dominating the general area with aggressive fighting patrols to prevent further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of a continued security presence.
