In a decisive counter-terrorism operation, Nigerian military forces have successfully repelled a major terrorist incursion into Borno State, inflicting heavy casualties on the insurgents and disrupting their plans.
Decisive Engagement Thwarts Infiltration
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) operating in the North-East have foiled an attempt by terrorists based in the Mandara Mountains to infiltrate the community of Bitta in Borno State. The incident, which took place in the early hours of December 18, 2025, saw the troops utilize advanced surveillance to detect the advancing terrorist elements.
According to a statement by the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East) OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the troops demonstrated high levels of tactical restraint and professionalism. They allowed the terrorists to move into an effective engagement range before opening coordinated defensive fire.
Significant Blow to Terrorist Capability
The ground engagement proved devastating for the insurgent group. Several terrorists were neutralized, including a key terrorist commander and his cameraman. As the surviving fighters attempted to retreat, the Air Component of OPHK conducted follow-on precision strikes, further decimating their ranks and disrupting their escape routes.
Following the successful engagement, troops conducted a thorough exploitation of the area, recovering a significant cache of weapons, equipment, and logistics. The recovered items include:
- AK-47 rifles and 11 loaded magazines
- PKT machine guns and multiple belts of linked ammunition
- A camcorder and seven mobile phones
- Handheld radios, bandoliers
- Motorcycles and bicycles
Lieutenant Colonel Uba added that further exploitation revealed multiple blood trails and shallow graves, indicating that the terrorists sustained additional casualties during both the ground battle and the subsequent air strikes.
Sustained Pressure and High Morale
The military spokesman confirmed that the troops' morale and fighting efficiency remain high. Operations continue unabated to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure the safety of communities within the Area of Responsibility. He reiterated the unwavering commitment of Operation Hadin Kai troops to decisively defeat terrorist elements and restore lasting peace across the North-East.
In a related development, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has charged troops to sustain pressure on banditry and other threats through smart operations. He gave this charge during his maiden operational visit to the Air Training Command and co-located units in Kaduna, addressing airmen and airwomen.
Aneke stated that the prevailing security environment demands sustained readiness and discipline. He directed commanders to maintain the highest levels of preparedness for personnel, aircraft, and weapon systems. The Air Marshal reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force's unwavering commitment to counter-insurgency operations, internal security, and the protection of lives and property across the nation.
