Troops Crush Terror Cells, Foil Suicide Bombing As Military Reclaims Key Areas In North East

Emmanuel Daudu

In yet another decisive onslaught against insurgents, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, have thwarted multiple terrorist attacks and neutralized key threats across Borno and Adamawa States between October 25 and 31, 2025.

The operations, which spanned several flashpoints including Kukawa, Gwoza-Limankara, and Dikwa-Ajiri, led to the foiling of an attempted suicide bombing, the interception of terrorist logistics, and the arrest of five suspects attempting to infiltrate local communities.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, the troops demonstrated exceptional courage and tactical precision while safeguarding civilians and maintaining control of critical routes. “Our troops stood firm, executed swift responses, and thwarted enemy advances, ensuring the safety of the civilian population and key locations in the region,” he said.

On October 25, troops successfully repelled an attempted Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) attack in Kukawa Town. The vehicle, which was reinforced with armor plating, was neutralized by a T-55 tank after an initial RPG strike deflected. The swift intervention prevented what could have been a catastrophic explosion.

In coordinated operations with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), troops also discovered and safely disposed of three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the Dikwa-Ajiri axis, averting potential sabotage on key supply routes.

Subsequent ambushes and clearance operations in Gwoza, Bama, and Madagali resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists, the recovery of weapons and ammunition, and the arrest of suspects linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP networks. In one anti-smuggling raid under Operation Strangulation, troops intercepted a drum of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and motorcycles used to transport the product illegally in Mubi South, Adamawa State.

The Air Component Command of OPHK provided precision air support and surveillance, ensuring the success of ground operations. Follow-up exploitation near Sambisa Forest on October 31 led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 98 rounds of ammunition, and four bicycles used by fleeing terrorists.

The Military High Command has commended the troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and renewed dedication to the counterterrorism campaign in the region. It reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to sustaining aggressive operations aimed at dismantling remaining terrorist cells, cutting off their supply lines, and restoring lasting peace to the North East.