Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have successfully repelled a planned terrorist incursion from the Mandara Mountains into Bitta, a community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, dealing a major setback to insurgent operations in the region.
The failed infiltration occurred in the early hours of Thursday, following timely detection by Nigerian troops using advanced surveillance and monitoring systems. According to a statement released by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the movement of suspected terrorists was identified at about 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, as they advanced toward the area under cover of darkness.
Lt. Col. Uba explained that troops on ground maintained a high level of discipline and tactical patience, allowing the insurgents to move closer into an effective engagement zone before launching a well-coordinated defensive response. The resulting exchange of fire led to the killing of several terrorists, including a high-value fighter and his cameraman, believed to be responsible for documenting attacks for propaganda purposes.
He further noted that as the remaining insurgents attempted to flee the scene, they were pursued through precision air operations carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai. These follow-up air strikes inflicted additional casualties, disrupted escape routes, and further weakened the group’s ability to regroup or retreat safely.
During a subsequent search of the area, troops recovered a significant cache of weapons, communication gadgets, and logistical equipment. Items seized included a camcorder, multiple AK-47 rifles with 11 loaded magazines, bandoliers, handheld radios, PKT machine guns, belts of linked PKT and GPMG ammunition, several mobile phones, as well as motorcycles and bicycles believed to have been used for movement and supply.
The Theatre Command stated that the recovered materials highlight the level of preparation and operational capability of the terrorists prior to their interception. Further exploitation of the battlefield also revealed visible blood trails and shallow graves, suggesting that the insurgents suffered more casualties than initially confirmed, both during the ground engagement and the subsequent air strikes.
The military described the operation as a clear demonstration of sustained pressure on terrorist elements in the North-East and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities and denying insurgents freedom of movement across the region.
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