Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) continue to advance into the Timbuktu Triangle in Borno State, achieving significant operational gains and disrupting terrorist networks within the area.
During consolidation on 20 January 2026, approximately 6 km north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). One VBIED was neutralised through quick action, while the second breached defensive positions, damaging logistics platforms. Tragically, several soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed, and others injured. The wounded were promptly evacuated via Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters, with Nigerian Air Force platforms providing continuous overwatch.
Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of OPHK, said the troops had earlier cleared key terrorist strongholds, including Tergejeri, Chilaria, and the Ajigin/Abirma areas. Intermittent engagements with fleeing terrorists resulted in the neutralisation of numerous insurgents. Troops also discovered mass graves containing around 20 bodies of terrorists killed during previous encounters, highlighting the scale of losses inflicted on insurgents.
Uba emphasised that the security situation across the theatre remains generally stable, with troop morale high and operations continuing to exert sustained pressure on fleeing terrorists. He reaffirmed the commitment of OPHK to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across Nigeria’s North East.
