Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled an attempted attack by suspected ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists on a military location in Kirawa, along the Nigeria-Cameroon border in Borno State.
The military operation, conducted under Operation DESERT SANITY and SIEGE OPERATIONS, took place in the early hours of May 22, 2026, within the Sector 1 area of responsibility.
According to the military authorities, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate positions occupied by troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion and other allied forces in the Kirawa axis. However, vigilant troops, supported by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), detected the movement early and responded with heavy firepower.
The attack was reportedly foiled as the terrorists were forced to retreat towards the Cameroon border after suffering significant casualties during the fierce exchange of gunfire.
Military sources disclosed that Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance assets, as well as air support from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and partner forces, played a critical role in the coordinated operation.
Following the encounter, troops confirmed the neutralisation of 12 terrorists, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds, leaving blood trails along their withdrawal routes.
Security forces also recovered several weapons and combat equipment from the terrorists, including AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenade systems, ammunition, and a PKT machine gun.
The Joint Task Force stated that troops and CJTF operatives have maintained heightened vigilance in the area while exploitation operations continue to track fleeing terrorists and recover additional arms and materials.
Reaffirming its commitment to restoring peace in the North-East, the military assured residents that sustained pressure would continue against terrorist groups until they are completely neutralised across the theatre of operations.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and swift response to the attack, describing it as the third successful repulsion of terrorist activities within the week.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on May 23, 2026.
