Troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ have repelled coordinated attacks by ISWAP insurgents on several military positions in Borno State, killing a number of fighters and recovering weapons.
The attacks occurred in the early hours of March 16, 2026, targeting troop locations in Njimtilo, Baga, Buratai, and Damboa.
The terrorists reportedly launched the assaults from different directions in an attempt to overwhelm the troops.
At Ajiri Cross near Njimtilo, soldiers detected the advancing insurgents early and engaged them with heavy firepower, forcing them to retreat in disarray with significant casualties.
Troops in Baga, Buratai, and Damboa also resisted similar attacks, supported by air strikes from the Nigerian military.
The combined ground and air response disrupted the insurgents’ operations and inflicted further losses.
Among those killed was a key commander who led the attack in Buratai, while several others escaped with injuries.
Despite the intense fighting, troops maintained control of all the affected locations. Some soldiers were wounded, and equipment was damaged during the clashes.
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In follow-up operations, troops recovered weapons and ammunition, including machine guns, rifles, RPG bombs, and magazines.
They also destroyed three motorcycles used by the insurgents.
Seven bodies of insurgents were recovered, while reports indicate that about 20 others were buried by their fleeing comrades.
The military said the failed attacks show that insurgents are under pressure, as ongoing operations continue to limit their activities across the North East.
Troops have been urged to sustain the offensive while residents are advised to remain alert and ignore false information.



