Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) under Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled multiple coordinated attacks launched by suspected ISWAP terrorists on several military positions across the North East.
The attacks, which occurred between Sunday night and the early hours of Monday, targeted military locations in Delwa, Goniri, Kukawa, Mainok, as well as a troops’ harbour position deep inside the Sambisa Forest. According to the military, the terrorists launched the assaults simultaneously from different directions in what appeared to be an attempt to overwhelm the troops.
Despite the intensity of the attacks and the heavy firepower deployed by the insurgents, the troops held their ground and mounted a strong defence. Reinforcements and the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided timely support during the engagements, helping to repel the attackers and force them into retreat after sustaining significant casualties.
Military authorities said several bodies of the terrorists were left behind, while troops also recovered weapons and equipment abandoned during their withdrawal. Items recovered include two PKT machine guns, six AK-47 rifles, eight rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, four mortar bombs and assorted ammunition.
The military disclosed that parts of the defensive perimeters at Goniri and Kukawa were briefly breached during the intense firefights, while some structures within the bases and a number of vehicles were damaged. However, all the locations remain firmly under the control of Operation HADIN KAI troops.
Ground forces, backed by the Air Component, have since commenced follow-up exploitation operations in the affected areas, while cordon and search operations are ongoing in neighbouring communities where some wounded terrorists were reportedly seeking refuge.
The military, however, confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the engagements, including an officer in Kukawa described as an outstanding leader who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the nation.
The Joint Task Force reiterated that troops remained vigilant and committed to sustaining relentless operations to deny terrorists freedom of action and restore lasting peace, security and economic stability across the North East.
