Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have recorded a major breakthrough in the Northeast, killing more than 50 terrorists, including a senior ISWAP commander, during a series of coordinated operations across Borno State.
According to an operational report released in Abuja, the success was driven by a precision airstrike targeting terrorist positions around Kirta and Arina Ciki. Among those reportedly killed was Khalifa Umar, a member of the ISWAP Shura Council.
Military authorities said the sustained air campaign has increased pressure on insurgents, forcing many to abandon their island strongholds and move toward mainland areas.
In separate operations around Maiduguri and nearby communities, troops arrested three suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers and informants, alongside a former soldier accused of deserting with his weapon and later engaging in criminal activities.
Recovered items included a rifle with magazines, a vehicle, 30 litres of petrol, and other materials believed to have supported terrorist activities.
Security forces also carried out fighting patrols along the Kukawa axis, where they engaged fleeing insurgent scouts and recovered ammunition.
The military said its operations now rely heavily on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets combined with precision airstrikes to dismantle terrorist leadership structures, disrupt supply networks and restrict insurgent movement.
Authorities added that the intensified campaign has compelled terrorists to disperse into smaller groups, making them more vulnerable to ongoing pursuit operations across Borno and surrounding border areas.
