
Published: February 11, 2026
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) killed 16 ISWAP terrorists and rescued 11 kidnapped civilians in Borno State. The military said the fighters had fled after a failed raid on a base in Auno. As a result, the troops quickly launched a follow-up operation.
Troops kill ISWAP terrorists Borno: Troops Respond Quickly to ISWAP Attack
According to Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the Media Officer of OPHK, ISWAP fighters tried to raid the Auno base overnight. Troops repelled the attack and pursued the insurgents along the Maiduguri–Damboa Road. Meanwhile, local intelligence helped troops track the fleeing terrorists.
In the clash, soldiers killed 16 terrorists, wounded several, and forced many to retreat. They also recovered weapons, bicycles, and critical supplies, which disrupted ISWAP’s operations in the area. Additionally, the military increased patrols to prevent further attacks.
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Troops Rescue Kidnapped Civilians
Soldiers rescued 11 kidnapped civilians in separate operations. They freed two victims, Mallam Idris Adamu and Mallam Muhammadu Safiyanu, near Buratai. Later, they liberated nine more hostages along the Chibok–Damboa axis.
The military worked closely with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to locate and secure the hostages. As a result, all rescued civilians were safely reunited with their families.
Troops kill ISWAP terrorists Borno: Broader Security Operations in the Northeast
This operation is part of Nigeria’s wider effort to fight terrorism. The Defence Headquarters reported that troops neutralised over 30 terrorists and helped more than 700 displaced people return home. In addition, the military continues to expand intelligence-led operations across the region.
Nigeria has also partnered with the United States, which deployed 200 personnel to train and support Nigerian forces in counter-insurgency operations. Consequently, Nigerian troops are better equipped to respond to terrorist threats.
Impact on Borno State
Borno State remains heavily affected by Boko Haram and ISWAP. Insurgents have displaced millions and threatened security for years. Military operations aim to protect civilians, reclaim territories, and destroy terrorist networks. Furthermore, the military’s proactive approach is gradually restoring stability.
The Defence Headquarters said troops will continue patrols and carry out proactive operations to secure communities across the state. Overall, these efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to ending terrorism in the Northeast.
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