In the early hours of April 23, 2026, troops from the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), successfully thwarted a coordinated terrorist assault on Kukareta, Yobe state.
The attack, which started shortly after midnight and continued until around 3:00 a.m., was met with a rapid and organized response from alert troops. They carried out a strategic offensive-defensive operation that effectively contained the attackers, forcing them into a chaotic retreat.
During the confrontation, the troops inflicted heavy losses on the terrorists, confirming the neutralization of 24 insurgents thus far. Ongoing operations at the battlefield have also resulted in the recovery of a significant stockpile of weapons and ammunition.
Recovered items include 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), two PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, three RPG tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, 18 AK-47 magazines, and large quantities of belted 7.62mm ammunition for PKT systems.
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Two personnel were reported wounded in action but have since been stabilized. Additionally, one reinforcing armored tank was damaged during the encounter, with all its tyres blown out.
Military sources indicated that recovery operations are continuing to locate more bodies and equipment along the terrorists’ escape routes, which were reportedly marked by blood trails and discarded medical supplies.
This operation highlights the resilience, combat readiness, and firepower of OPHK troops in preventing terrorists from operating freely in the area.
Troops are expected to maintain offensive pressure to solidify their gains and decisively eliminate terrorist elements throughout the Joint Operations Area.
The statement was issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI.
