Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai conducted coordinated operations in the Timbuktu Triangle. They captured and destroyed notorious ISWAP terrorist detention facilities.
The actions occurred over the last two weeks and formed part of Operation Desert Sanity V. Intelligence-led maneuvers forced terrorists to abandon their strongholds.
Discovery and Destruction
Soldiers uncovered three major detention facilities hidden in the forested Timbuktu Triangle, which spans Borno and Yobe states. Preliminary assessments showed these sites held up to 300 detainees. Troops demolished the facilities after thorough clearance. This action prevented ISWAP from reusing the locations.
Casualties Among Terrorists
During encounters, troops neutralized no fewer than 32 ISWAP fighters. The dead included two qaids and three munzirs. Several other terrorists sustained serious injuries in fierce engagements.
Escape of Captives
Sustained offensive pressure led to the escape of over 70 captives. Many resurfaced in villages such as Goniri, Buratai, and Mandaragirau. Meanwhile this disrupted ISWAP’s ability to detain civilians and collect ransoms.
Testimony from Escapee
Malam Jidda Ba Jidda escaped during a gun duel between terrorists and advancing troops. Jidda, a native of Kufi village near Buratai in Biu Local Government Area, stated that terrorists abducted him on December 22, 2025.
Broader Impact
The operation degraded ISWAP’s enforcement mechanisms. It constricted their freedom of action. Moreover the escapes undermined terrorist control over local populations. Troops maintained high morale throughout the actions.
Security Commitment
The armed forces committed to sustaining pressure on terrorists. They denied safe havens and aimed to restore peace in the North East.
