By Our Reporter

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have neutralized over 17 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists and recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, and logistics during sustained offensive operations across the North East between July 23 and Aug. 2.

The operations, which were conducted with close air support from the Nigerian Air Force component of OPHK and the Civilian Joint Task Force, covered parts of Adamawa and Borno states, including Michika, Bama, Konduga, Gwoza, Magumeri, and Biu Local Government Areas.

Army authorities said in a statement on Monday that the series of coordinated patrols, ambushes, clearance missions, and logistics disruption efforts led to the recovery of several AK-47 rifles, a PKT gun, multiple magazines, and a substantial quantity of 7.62mm ammunition.

In separate operations around Bula Daburu, Alau Dam, Bitta, Kawuri, Algambari, Ajiri, and Bulabulin, troops also recovered over 2,300 litres of diesel (AGO), more than 1,000 litres of petrol (PMS), two generators, a tricycle, bags of rice, solar panels, and several motorcycles.

Significantly, troops safely detonated more than 14 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted by the terrorists across various locations, preventing potential casualties among civilians and security personnel.

The Army also disclosed that over 987 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were safely returned to their ancestral homes in Mandaragrau, Biu LGA, as part of the Borno State Government’s resettlement programme aimed at restoring normalcy and reviving socio-economic life in affected communities.

In a related development, OPHK troops conducted joint operations with their Nigerien counterparts around the Diffa–Duji–Damasak axis, further boosting cross-border security cooperation and stability in the region.

The military high command reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations to rid the region of terrorist elements and restore lasting peace to the North East.