Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have recorded another major success after repelling a coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists on a Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, Borno State, killing 38 insurgents.
The attempted assault, which occurred on Saturday, March 28, 2026, was met with fierce resistance from the troops, who engaged the terrorists in a decisive battle that disrupted their operation and forced them to retreat in disarray.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the troops demonstrated high-level combat readiness and coordination during the encounter.
“Troops of Operation HADIN KAI effectively repelled the attack and neutralized dozens of terrorists, while forcing others to flee under intense pressure,” he said.
He noted that the Air Component provided critical close air support, targeting fleeing insurgents and enhancing the overall success of the operation.
Follow-up offensives along the terrorists’ escape routes further compounded their losses, bringing the total number of those killed to 38.
Security sources also confirmed that over 30 additional bodies of insurgents were discovered along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere corridor leading to the Timbuktu Triangle, a known insurgent enclave. Weapons and other combat materials were recovered during the mop-up operations.
The military has reaffirmed its determination to intensify ongoing offensives against terrorist elements, emphasizing its commitment to restoring peace and stability across the North East.
The latest victory highlights sustained pressure by Nigerian forces on ISWAP strongholds, signaling continued momentum in the fight against insurgency.

