By Borno, Nigeria- The Nigerian Army announced today that troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Borno State successfully repelled an ISWAP attack and carried out counter offensive operations that weakened terrorist networks and rescued kidnapped civilians.
According to the Army, on 5 February 2026, shortly before midnight, ISWAP fighters attempted to attack Forward Operating Base (FOB) Auno in Konduga Local Government Area. Troops of Sector 1 successfully thwarted the assault through coordinated and disciplined fire, forcing the attackers to retreat without breaching the base.
The Army stated that following the failed attack, troops, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a counter offensive on 9 February 2026 along the Komala axis in Konduga LGA. The operation pursued retreating terrorists toward the Gidan Kaji axis, resulting in the neutralisation of 16 terrorists while several others escaped with serious injuries.
It was further reported by the Army that during the operation, troops recovered over 20 bicycles, weapons, logistics, and other supplies critical to terrorist operations. Suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers were also arrested along the Bukarti axis while transporting large quantities of drugs intended for terrorist use.
The Army disclosed that on the same day, troops foiled a kidnap attempt along the Buratai Kamuya road. Following detection of the attackers, troops pursued them, forcing the assailants to abandon their victims. Two victims, Mallam Idris Adamu and Mallam Muhammadu Safiyanu, were rescued and safely reunited with their families in Buratai.
The Nigerian Army also reported that in response to a distress call along the Chibok Damboa axis, troops successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims.
The Army concluded that these operations demonstrate OPHK’s continued commitment to protecting civilians, supporting humanitarian efforts, and dismantling terrorist networks across Borno State.
