The recent successful interdiction of a terrorist infiltration attempt from the Mandara Mountains into Bitta by troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) represents far more than a routine tactical encounter. It is a clear demonstration of improved intelligence fusion, operational readiness, and joint force effectiveness in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-terrorism campaign in the North-East.
In the early hours of 18 December 2025, troops of OPHK, supported by advanced surveillance systems, detected and tracked the movement of terrorists advancing from their mountainous hideouts towards civilian communities. Rather than rushing into premature contact, the troops exercised tactical patience and discipline—allowing the insurgents to move into a carefully selected engagement zone. This calculated restraint proved decisive.
The resulting engagement led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, including a key commander and his cameraman, striking directly at both the leadership and propaganda machinery of the terrorist network. The loss of a cameraman is particularly significant, as it disrupts the terrorists’ ability to document, glorify, and disseminate attacks for recruitment and psychological warfare.
Equally noteworthy was the seamless integration of air power into the operation. As the surviving terrorists attempted to retreat, precision strikes by the Air Component of OPHK further degraded their combat strength, blocked escape routes, and amplified the impact of the ground engagement. This effective air–land coordination underscores the growing maturity of joint operations under Operation HADIN KAI.
Post-engagement exploitation revealed the depth of the setback suffered by the terrorists. The recovery of AK-47 rifles, PKT machine guns, loaded magazines, communication devices, camcorders, motorcycles, and logistics confirms that the group intended to carry out a major offensive or destabilising action. The discovery of blood trails and shallow graves further indicates that terrorist casualties were higher than initially observed, reinforcing the scale of the defeat inflicted.
Strategically, this operation is significant on multiple levels. First, it denied terrorists access to Bitta, preventing potential attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. Second, it degraded enemy leadership, firepower, mobility, and communication, weakening their operational cohesion. Third, it sent a strong message that traditional infiltration routes, including the rugged Mandara Mountains axis, are no longer safe corridors for terrorist movement.
Beyond the battlefield gains, the operation reflects the high morale, professionalism, and combat efficiency of OPHK troops. It highlights a force that is increasingly proactive, intelligence-driven, and capable of dominating both terrain and timing in engagements with terrorist elements.
As operations continue across the North-East, this decisive action reinforces confidence in the Armed Forces’ ability to deny terrorists freedom of action, protect vulnerable communities, and steadily restore peace and stability to the region. The Mandara Mountains encounter stands as a testament to the effectiveness of sustained pressure, joint operations, and unwavering resolve in the fight against terrorism.
Olayemi Esan is a public Relations and Media practitioner, a historian and a broadcast journalist. She can be reached via 08035132961 or yemiesan04@gmail.com
