Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have repelled a coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists targeting soldiers carrying out stabilisation operations in Mairari, Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack, which occurred late on Friday, involved an attempt by the terrorists to breach the military base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). The devices were swiftly detected and neutralised by troops, preventing any penetration of the base.
CCTV footage from the scene confirmed that several terrorists were killed, while others sustained serious injuries. Surviving fighters were seen evacuating their dead and wounded during their retreat.
According to the Theatre Command, troops from Sector 3 OPHK/MNJTF, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a follow-up operation in the early hours of December 13, 2025.
The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist corpses and a cache of weapons, ammunition and logistics abandoned during the terrorists’ hurried withdrawal.
Items recovered include AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, belts of PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, as well as medical and sustainment supplies, all pointing to sustained terrorist activity in the area.
The OPHK spokesperson, Lt. Col. Sani Una, confirmed that the two VBIEDs were destroyed by the operation’s defensive fire system, resulting in damage to the road at two separate points. He added that no breach of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) occurred, underscoring the troops’ preparedness and resilience.
He noted that the recoveries have significantly weakened the terrorists’ operational capacity and curtailed their ability to operate freely in the area.
Troops are currently maintaining dominance of the general area through aggressive fighting patrols to prevent further attacks and reassure local communities of a sustained security presence.
