Troops involved in Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have continued their push into the volatile Timbuktu Triangle, achieving key operational victories and weakening terrorist networks entrenched in the area.
The operation has seen sustained pressure on insurgents, disrupting their movements and dismantling several of their strongholds.
Fierce Encounters and VBIED Threats
On 20 January 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area roughly 6 kilometers north of Chilaria, Nigerian forces came under attack by two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).
Thanks to alertness and rapid response, troops successfully neutralized one of the VBIEDs, preventing major destruction.
The second device, however, breached the defensive position, damaging some logistics platforms.
Tragically, in the engagement, several gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force lost their lives, while others sustained injuries.
The wounded were swiftly evacuated via Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, with air support from Nigerian Air Force and Army platforms ensuring safe extraction.
Recent Operations Across Terrorist Hideouts
Barely days before this encounter, OPHK troops had already launched aggressive strikes on terrorist enclaves within the region, including Sambisa Forest and other known hideouts.
According to Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East, troops cleared key areas such as Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma zones, engaging fleeing terrorist elements and neutralizing multiple combatants in the process.
Evidence of Heavy Terrorist Losses
Further emphasizing the impact of the operation, soldiers discovered mass graves containing approximately 20 terrorist bodies, apparently buried by their own ranks after previous encounters with troops.
This finding highlights both the heavy losses suffered by insurgents and the widening gap between terrorist propaganda and the reality on the ground.
Sustaining Pressure and Protecting Civilians
Lt. Col. Uba confirmed that across the theatre, the security situation remains generally stable, with troop morale high and operations ongoing.
OPHK continues to apply sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist groups, aiming to dismantle their networks and restore peace across the North East.
“Troops of OPHK remain unwavering in their commitment to protect civilians, neutralize insurgents, and restore lasting security throughout the region,” Uba explained.
What Comes Next
With operations maintaining momentum, the Nigerian military plans to continue its campaign, keeping insurgent activities under constant surveillance while prioritizing civilian safety and rapid response to threats.
The focus remains on eliminating terrorist footholds, securing key locations, and strengthening the stability of the North East.
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