Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have eliminated no fewer than 21 terrorists from the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State.
This information was provided by security consultant and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who reported that troops of Operation Hadin Kai and the CJTF neutralised the terrorists during a fierce gun battle in the Sojiri and Kayamla villages along the Damboa–Maiduguri Road.
According to Makama, the encounter, which took place on Sunday at approximately 12:15 a.m., followed credible intelligence indicating that a large number of terrorists had gathered in the area, likely preparing for coordinated attacks.
Sources stated that troops immediately mobilised to the location and made contact with the terrorists around noon on Saturday as they were observed advancing in formation.
“Upon sighting the terrorists, estimated to be about 100, troops engaged decisively. While the firefight was ongoing, an additional group of terrorists attempted a surprise attack from the rear, but our troops held their ground and continued the engagement with superior firepower,” the sources reported.
At least 17 corpses of terrorists were confirmed at the scene, with additional casualties suspected as several blood trails were observed leading into surrounding bushes.
“Exploitation of the area is ongoing to uncover more bodies and to clear the general area of fleeing elements,” the sources added.
Items recovered from the scene included arms, ammunition, and other logistics, while troops maintained pressure on the terrorists to deny them freedom of movement along this strategic route.
A tactical withdrawal was conducted to stabilise the situation and allow troops to regroup, particularly due to the emotional impact of the losses on the men. However, morale remains high, and operations will continue.
The military has reaffirmed the commitment of Operation Hadin Kai to sustain offensive actions against terrorist elements and to prevent any attempts to threaten Maiduguri, Damboa, and other communities in the North-East.
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