Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have repelled a coordinated attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a forward operating base in Mairari, Borno State, dealing a significant setback to the group’s operations in the area
According to multiple military sources, the attack began late on Friday, and extended into the early hours of Saturday, as ISWAP elements attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs)
Both explosive-laden vehicles were detected in time and neutralised by troops, preventing any penetration of the base.
CCTV footage reviewed after the engagement showed that several of the attackers were killed, while others sustained serious injuries. Surviving fighters were seen evacuating their dead and wounded from the scene, indicating heavy losses during the failed assault
In the early hours of Saturday, troops of Sector 3 OPHK/Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out a detailed exploitation of the area
The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist corpses and a cache of weapons and logistics abandoned during the militants’ withdrawal.
Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, belts of PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies and other sustainment items, underscoring what the military described as evidence of sustained terrorist activity in the area
The military also confirmed that the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK’s defensive fire systems, causing damage to the road at two separate points. However, officials stressed that there was no breach of the forward operating base, highlighting the preparedness and resilience of the troops
Troops are continuing aggressive fighting patrols around Mairari to prevent further attacks and reassure local communities of a sustained security presence, the military said. OPHK reaffirmed its commitment to “decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East region”
Operation HADIN KAI is the Nigerian military’s counter-insurgency campaign in the North East, targeting ISWAP and Boko Haram factions that have carried out repeated attacks on military positions and civilian communities across Borno and neighbouring states.
