Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have neutralised several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, including a high-profile member of the group's Shura Council, during an engagement in Kukawa, Borno State.
Security sources said the operation, conducted on October 31, 2026, resulted in the neutralisation of Abu Hajara, a prominent member of ISWAP's Shura Council, alongside Abul Walid, a senior commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, the group's overall Wali.
The sources also confirmed the neutralisation of two high-ranking Arab fighters during the engagement.
According to the sources, combined troops deployed in Kukawa successfully repelled a massive ISWAP attack on their positions, deploying superior ground firepower and air support from the Air Component.
The engagement reportedly inflicted significant casualties on the terrorists, further disrupting their leadership structure and operational capability in the area.
Following the encounter, troops recovered several arms, ammunition and communication devices from the scene.
The successful operation comes barely three days after the reported attack on troops in Buni Yadi, where 55 terrorists were said to have been neutralised, including key commanders Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir; Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk; and Commander Gogore.
The latest engagement underscores the sustained military pressure on ISWAP elements operating across the theatre, particularly in areas around Lake Chad and other terrorist strongholds in Borno State.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, destroying their camps and restoring lasting security across the region.- By: Zagazola Makama
