Troops of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have recorded fresh operational successes, including the arrest of suspected Boko Haram collaborators, the rescue of kidnapped victims, and the surrender of a teenage associate of terrorists operating around the Mandara Mountains.
According to the military, the coordinated operations are part of ongoing efforts to weaken insurgent networks, cut off their supply chains, and restore stability to communities affected by years of insurgency in the North-East.
In a statement released by the Media Information Officer at Headquarters Joint Task Force North-East, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gajibo successfully foiled an attempted attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters.
The attackers, who reportedly advanced towards Gajibo town on motorcycles and in multiple formations, were quickly engaged by troops.
“The terrorists were detected as they advanced towards the town from multiple directions. Troops responded swiftly with heavy firepower, including mortar engagements, forcing the attackers to withdraw in disarray,” the statement read.
Military sources confirmed that the superior response forced the insurgents to retreat, abandoning ammunition and other combat materials during their escape. No casualties were recorded on the side of the troops.
In another operation, troops working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) arrested two suspected Boko Haram collaborators in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State. The suspects, identified as cattle rearers, are currently being interrogated to determine the extent of their involvement with terrorist groups.
Similarly, based on intelligence from a surrendered terrorist associate, troops arrested another suspect identified as Umar Ahmadu in Gwoza Local Government Area. He is alleged to have served as a logistics supplier to insurgents and is currently assisting ongoing investigations.
In a related development, a 17-year-old boy believed to be connected to a terrorist family also surrendered to troops along the Gwoza–Limankara axis. The military said the teenager cited sustained pressure from troops and harsh conditions within terrorist enclaves in the Mandara Mountains as reasons for his decision to escape.
Meanwhile, troops also rescued two men who were abducted in Mafa town. The victims were reportedly found during patrol operations after escaping from captivity under difficult conditions.
The Nigerian Army said all arrested suspects and rescued individuals have been handed over for further investigation, medical checks, and necessary follow-up actions, while operations in the region will continue.
