Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully foiled a coordinated terrorist attack in Kukareta, inflicting heavy losses on the assailants and recovering a large cache of weapons.
According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), the attack began shortly after midnight on April 23, 2026, and lasted until about 3:00 a.m.
The statement said vigilant troops under Sector 2 responded swiftly with a well-coordinated offensive-defensive operation, effectively containing the assault and forcing the terrorists to retreat in disarray.
During the engagement, at least 24 terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered a significant haul of arms and ammunition from the scene. Items recovered include 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), two PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, three RPG tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, 18 AK-47 magazines, and large quantities of 7.62mm belted ammunition.
The military disclosed that two personnel were wounded in action but have since been stabilised. Additionally, one reinforcing armoured tank sustained damage during the firefight, with all its tyres blown out.
Further exploitation of the battlefield is ongoing, with troops tracking the fleeing terrorists along withdrawal routes marked by blood trails and abandoned medical supplies, suggesting additional casualties.
The military said the successful operation underscores the resilience, combat readiness, and firepower of Operation HADIN KAI forces in denying terrorists freedom of action across the North East.
It added that sustained offensive operations will continue to consolidate gains and decisively eliminate terrorist elements within the joint operations area.
