By Sabiu Abdullahi
Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded a major operational success with the killing of a senior Boko Haram commander, Abu Khalid, alongside 10 other terrorists during a night operation in Borno State.
This is contained in a statement signed by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel and Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, and dated February 1, 2026.
Abu Khalid was identified as the second-in-command of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest. He was also described as a key figure within the terrorist hierarchy who coordinated operations and logistics across the Sambisa axis.
The development came less than 24 hours after troops neutralised another notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, who operated within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle.
According to the military, troops of Sector 1, working with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) under Operation DESERT SANITY, engaged the terrorists at the Komala general area of Konduga Local Government Area at about 11:00 p.m. during a night offensive.
Following the encounter, the troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, magazines, several bicycles, assorted logistics and food supplies, as well as a large quantity of medical consumables.
The military confirmed that no casualty was recorded among the troops during the operation. It added that the morale of personnel remains high as clearance operations continue across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle and other known Boko Haram and ISWAP hideouts in the North East.
The Joint Task Force, North East, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the tempo of operations until all terrorist elements are neutralised and lasting peace and economic stability are restored to the region.
The Military High Command also commended the troops for their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities in the North East, while urging them to maintain the current operational momentum.