Nigerian soldiers

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly killed 15 terrorists in an air strike conducted near Pulka in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Nigerian Army said the operation took place at about 11:50 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, following intelligence reports and confirmed sightings of terrorist movements in the area.

The Acting Military Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Mohammed Goni, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday.

The statement read, “The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has recorded another operational success with the neutralisation of 15 terrorists in a precision air strike north-west of Pulka in Gwoza LGA of Borno State.

“The operation was conducted at about 11:50 p.m. on 23 October 2026, following credible intelligence and confirmed sightings of terrorist movements in the general area of Pulka.”

According to Goni, the air operation was followed by ground activities aimed at assessing the area and consolidating the gains recorded during the strike.

He said the operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led targeting and coordinated military action in disrupting terrorist activities and weakening their operational capabilities.

“It also reflects the unwavering commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to denying terrorist groups freedom of action and preventing them from threatening communities within the theatre,” he added.

Goni explained that the strike was part of ongoing military offensives across the North-East, supported by intelligence gathering and the coordinated use of available military resources.

“Through these efforts, the Theatre Command continues to maintain pressure on terrorist elements, disrupt their activities and strengthen the security environment across the North East,” he stated.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and insurgency, protecting civilians and restoring normal economic and social activities in affected communities.

“The Theatre Command reassures the public that troops will sustain the momentum of ongoing operations with vigilance, determination and professionalism,” he said.

Goni also called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information about suspicious movements and activities.

He stressed that cooperation between the military and civilians remained crucial to sustaining operational successes and achieving lasting peace and security across the North-East.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have intensified military operations against terrorist enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi states. The offensive, which began earlier in the week, is aimed at protecting communities and eliminating criminal elements in the region.

In Sokoto State, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion VII engaged terrorists twice on March 25, 2026, at the Magonho Forest. During the encounters, three bandits were killed. The troops also recovered three AK-47 rifles and motorcycles.

In Zamfara State, troops carried out a successful ambush along the Gada Maya–Makakari Village road on the same day. Two terrorists were neutralised, while others fled the scene. Recovered items include one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a Baofeng radio, two mobile phones and a motorcycle.

Later that day, terrorists attacked Kaida Village, accusing residents of collaborating with security forces. Troops responded promptly. One additional terrorist was neutralised, while another AK-47 rifle was recovered.

In another operation, troops acted on credible intelligence and moved into Dutsi Village in Moriki District of Zurmi Local Government Area. The pressure from the troops forced the terrorists to flee. They abandoned one AK-47 rifle, a magazine and 26 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

In Kebbi State, troops received intelligence on the presence of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in Giron Masa community of Shanga Local Government Area. On approach, the troops were ambushed about 500 metres before reaching the village. Despite the attack, they stood firm. Reinforcements and combat support have been deployed, while efforts continue to track and neutralise the fleeing terrorists.

Military authorities said 8 Division/Sector 2 OPFY remains committed to dominating the operational space, degrading terrorist capabilities and protecting law-abiding citizens. They added that troops remain highly motivated and continue to display courage and professionalism in line with directives from the Chief of Army Staff.