In a significant blow to terrorist operations in the North-East, Nigerian security forces have eliminated a large number of Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters. A joint operation between the Nigerian Army and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) resulted in the death of at least 21 terrorists in Borno State.
Intelligence-Led Operation in Sojiri and Kayamla
The successful engagement was confirmed by security consultant and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama. He reported that troops from Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside CJTF members, neutralised the terrorists during a fierce confrontation. The battle took place in Sojiri and Kayamla villages, located along the strategic Damboa–Maiduguri Road.
According to sources cited by Makama, the operation was launched based on credible intelligence. The information indicated that a large contingent of terrorists had gathered along the axis, potentially to plan and launch coordinated attacks on surrounding communities. The encounter itself occurred in the early hours of Sunday, around 12:15 a.m.
Decisive Engagement and Superior Firepower
Troops mobilised swiftly to the identified area and made initial contact with the terrorists around noon on Saturday. The security forces observed the militants advancing in a tactical formation. Upon sighting the enemy, estimated to be about 100 strong, the troops engaged them 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 revealed. This resilience prevented the terrorists from gaining any tactical advantage.
Exploitation and Continued Pressure
The aftermath of the battle confirmed the effectiveness of the operation. Security personnel counted at least 17 terrorist corpses at the immediate scene. Furthermore, several blood trails were observed leading into the surrounding bushes, indicating that more militants suffered fatal injuries and fled, raising the suspected casualty count.
Items recovered from the scene included:
- Various arms
- Ammunition
- Other logistical supplies
An exploitation of the general area is ongoing to uncover additional bodies and clear out any fleeing elements. Troops have maintained pressure on the terrorists to deny them freedom of movement along this critical route.
Morale High Despite Challenges
Following the intense engagement, a tactical withdrawal was conducted to stabilise the situation and allow troops to regroup. This decision was taken partly in consideration of the emotional impact such losses can have on the men. However, military sources confirmed that morale remains high and operations will continue unabated.
In a related development, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has deployed an additional 300 troops to bolster security in the North Central region of Nigeria, showcasing a broader strategic reinforcement.
The military high command has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Operation Hadin Kai. The force is dedicated to sustaining offensive actions against all terrorist elements. The primary objective is to prevent any attempt to threaten the safety of Maiduguri, Damboa, and other communities across the North-East.
