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Destroy VBIEDs, logistics, recover weapons
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From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Army has said that troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have foiled a coordinated attack by members of the ISWAP terrorist group on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, killing several terrorists.
The troops also destroyed several logistics assets of the terrorists, including two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and recovered AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies and other items.
Media Information Officer for Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, who made this known, said the assault, which began late on 12 December 2025 and continued into the early hours of 13 December, was thwarted through coordinated ground and air operations.
He also said that troops are currently conducting aggressive patrols in the area to prevent further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of the continued security presence.
Uba, in a statement, said: “During the attack, terrorists attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).
“Both devices were promptly detected and neutralised by the troops, preventing any penetration of the base. CCTV footage and field observations confirmed that several terrorists were killed, while others sustained serious injuries as surviving elements evacuated their dead and wounded.”
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He said that following the failed assault, OPHK troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a thorough exploitation of the area. The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist casualties and the seizure of weapons, ammunition and logistics abandoned during their retreat.
Recovered items included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies and other materials indicative of sustained terrorist operations. These recoveries have further degraded the terrorists’ operational capacity and denied them freedom of action in the area.
The two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK defensive fire, causing damage to two points along the road. Importantly, there was no breach of the FOB, highlighting the preparedness, vigilance and resilience of the troops.
Troops are currently conducting aggressive patrols in the area to prevent further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of the continued security presence.
Troops remain resolute in their commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East. The failed attack at Mairari underscores the operational readiness and professionalism of the men and women in uniform.
Operation HADIN KAI continues to prioritise the protection of civilians, the disruption of terrorist networks and the restoration of peace across the region.
