RismadarVoice Reporters, June 20, 2026
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded fresh operational gains against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, including the destruction of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), disruption of insurgent movements and the arrest of suspected logistics suppliers in separate operations across the North-East.
The successful operations were conducted between June 16 and 19, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist capabilities and enhance security within the theatre.
According to the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North-East Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team, supported by a Quick Reaction Force, acted on intelligence provided by residents regarding the emplacement of explosives along the Biu–Buratai Road in Borno State.
He said the troops immediately launched a fighting patrol to the area and discovered five improvised explosive device cylinders planted by terrorists along the route.
The explosives were professionally detonated and rendered safe without any casualties, thereby preventing potential attacks on road users and security personnel.
In a separate operation on June 17, troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion engaged terrorists along the Miyanti–Ngoshe axis while returning from a picketing duty in Kirawa.
The troops reportedly encountered an unconfirmed number of insurgents riding on about 60 motorcycles who opened fire on them.
However, the soldiers responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to retreat towards Miyanti.
Although the number of casualties inflicted on the insurgents could not be immediately verified, troops recovered 817 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, three motorcycles, two solar panels, 102 sachets of salt, a motorcycle tyre, two motorcycle tubes and other motorcycle spare parts believed to be part of the terrorists’ logistics supplies.
The military also recorded a breakthrough on June 19 when troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison intercepted two suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP logistics suppliers during a routine stop-and-search operation.
The suspects, identified as Mohammed Bukar, also known as “Dege,” 35, and his apprentice, Iliyasu Abdullahi, 26, were arrested at a military checkpoint while travelling in a cyan Volkswagen vehicle with registration number FGF-357-AG.
Security sources said the suspects were conveying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and relief materials allegedly destined for Boko Haram and ISWAP elements.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to assist security agencies in ongoing investigations.
Operation HADIN KAI described the operations as a major setback for terrorist groups operating in the North-East, noting that sustained pressure on insurgents’ logistics and mobility networks remains central to ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
The military urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information, stressing that civilian cooperation remains vital to achieving lasting peace and security in the region.
