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Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on a Forward Operating Base in Mairari, Borno State, killing several insurgents.
The Joint Task Force North East confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Saturday by its Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba. He said the attackers attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), but troops detected and neutralised them before they could cause serious damage.
According to the statement, the assault began late on December 12 and continued into the early hours of December 13. Troops foiled the attack through coordinated ground and air operations, dealing what the military described as a decisive blow to ISWAP’s operational capacity in the area.
Lt Colonel Uba said that following the failed assault, troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team and the Civilian Joint Task Force, carried out a follow-up operation in the area.
The operation led to the discovery of several terrorist casualties and the recovery of weapons, ammunition and logistics abandoned during the insurgents’ retreat. Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear and medical supplies.
He added that defensive fire destroyed the two VBIEDs, causing only minor damage at two points along the road, and stressed that the attackers did not breach the base.
Lt Colonel Uba said troops remain on aggressive patrols to prevent further attacks and reassure local communities. He noted that the failed assault highlighted the vigilance and professionalism of the troops, reaffirming Operation Hadin Kai’s commitment to protecting civilians, disrupting terrorist networks and restoring peace in the region.
