Troops of the 222 Battalion, Operation HADIN KAI, have intercepted 20 suspected family members of Boko Haram (Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad – JAS) who reportedly fled their enclave following an attack by rival Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Borno State.
Interception Details and Composition of the Group
Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. According to the statement, the group was intercepted at about 9:05 a.m. on August 3 during a routine patrol along the Gezuwa axis in Konduga Local Government Area.
The escapees comprised nine women, two adult men, eight female minors, and one male child below the age of two years, bringing the total number to 20. The composition highlights the involvement of entire families in insurgent enclaves, a tactic often used by Boko Haram to maintain support networks.
Preliminary Investigation and Handover
“During preliminary investigation, they disclosed that they escaped from Gezuwa after military offensive against their settlement,” the statement read. The individuals have since been handed over to the 21 Military Intelligence Regiment for further profiling and necessary action.
This interception underscores the effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI’s intelligence-driven approach in disrupting terrorist logistics and dismantling support networks. The military remains resolute in sustaining pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements across the North East Theatre.
Impact on Counter-Terrorism Operations
The military urges members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to facilitate ongoing counter-terrorism operations and the restoration of lasting peace and security in the region. This incident reflects the ongoing internal conflicts between Boko Haram and ISWAP, which have led to increased defections and surrenders among insurgent ranks.
