By ZAKAA LAZARUS
Troops of Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded further operational successes in Borno State, foiling terrorist attacks on Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) at Gajiram in Nganzai LGA and Mairari in Guzamala LGA, while sustained pressure led to the surrender of 2 terrorists, including a commander.
This was contained in a statement by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri on 18 September, 2026.
On 17 September 2026, terrorists advancing towards FOB Gajiram were detected early by alert troops, supported by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets. Troops adopted defensive measures, while the Air Component OPHK provided close air support. Faced with the coordinated response, the terrorists withdrew.
In a related attack on FOB Mairari later that night, several ISWAP terrorists attacked the location but were met with stiff resistance from troops, with robust close air support from the Air Component, who successfully contained the attack.
Subsequent exploitation led to the recovery of:
– 4 terrorists’ corpses
– Some AK-47 rifles, magazines, quantities of ammunition, RPG bombs
– A camcorder, among other items
Troops who sustained injuries were promptly stabilised and airlifted to hospital where they are receiving medical attention.
The Commander Sector 3 OPHK later conducted a post-engagement assessment, commended troops and reinforced the locations to consolidate gains while troops continue exploitation to prevent regrouping.
In a related development, sustained military pressure yielded further results as 2 Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists, including a Qaid (commander), surrendered to troops of Sector 1 OPHK along the Main Supply Route (MSR) Miyanti–Darel Jamel axis in Bama LGA on the night of 16 September 2026.
They surrendered with 3 AK-47 rifles, 5 magazines, a motorcycle and a cache of ammunition. They are currently in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation and profiling.
The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, commended the troops, MNJTF ISR team and aircrew for vigilance, courage and effective coordination.
He reaffirmed the determination of OPHK to sustain operational pressure and protect communities across the North East, urging terrorists still in the bush to lay down arms and surrender through established channels, while calling on the public to provide timely credible information to security forces.
