Troops of the Joint Task Force North East under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded significant operational successes against terrorists following coordinated dawn and counter-offensive operations across parts of the North East, reaffirming their firm control of the area.
In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops of Sector 1 OPHK conducted a well-coordinated night-dawn surprise attack on 28 January 2026 at Bula Dalo. During the operation, the troops neutralised over 12 terrorists, forcing the remaining fighters to flee in disarray.
The operation also led to the recovery of several weapons, including four AK-47 rifles, one PKT anti-aircraft gun, one Rocket Propelled Gun (RPG), and one multiple grenade launcher.
Lt Col Uba further disclosed that in a separate deliberate operation at the Garno terrorist camp, troops of Sector 1 sustained the momentum by neutralising an additional six terrorists. The troops also destroyed key terrorist life-support structures and recovered a large cache of PKT anti-aircraft ammunition, further degrading the terrorists’ operational capability.
In a related development, troops of Sector 2 OPHK at Sabon Gari were confronted with an attack by ISWAP terrorists in the early hours of 29 January 2026. The attack was reportedly supported by multiple armed drones.
Although the terrorists temporarily breached a section of the defensive position, the troops swiftly regrouped, repelled the assault, and restored full control of the location with timely reinforcement from nearby units.
The statement noted that some gallant troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) paid the supreme price while defending the location. Additionally, an excavator and a lowbed vehicle were damaged as a result of the armed drone attack.
Lt Col Uba stated that exploitation of the area is ongoing, as troops continue aggressive operations aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring sustained security across the North East.
He assured that Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute and committed to protecting lives and property, while maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist elements until lasting peace is achieved in the region.
SpyeTV analyst, Olayemi Esan reports that the coordinated dawn and counter-offensive operations under Operation HADIN KAI have delivered a meaningful setback to terrorist groups operating in the North East. The neutralisation of a significant number of fighters in quick succession weakens insurgent manpower, disrupts command cohesion, and limits their ability to plan and execute attacks in the near term.
The recovery of heavy weapons and large quantities of ammunition is particularly impactful, as it reduces the terrorists’ firepower and capacity for high-intensity engagements, including attacks on military bases and nearby communities. Likewise, the destruction of life-support and camp infrastructure at Garno constrains logistics, mobility, and sustainment, forcing terrorists to operate under increased pressure and insecurity.
Equally important is the successful defence at Sabon Gari despite the use of armed drones, which highlights improved adaptability and resilience of the troops against evolving terrorist tactics. This not only blunts immediate threats but also sends a deterrent signal that technological escalation by terrorists will be met with effective countermeasures.
Overall, the operation reinforces government control, reassures local populations, and sustains operational momentum against insurgent groups. While the loss of personnel underscores the continuing cost of the campaign, the cumulative effect strengthens the broader counterterrorism posture aimed at degrading terrorist networks and restoring lasting stability in the North East.
