Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled a coordinated attack launched by suspected ISWAP terrorists on military formations in Yobe State.
The attack reportedly occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2026, when the insurgents advanced from multiple directions targeting the Headquarters of the 27 Brigade in Buni Gari and a nearby military checkpoint.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the troops were said to have responded with superior firepower and tactical resistance, preventing the terrorists from breaching the camp.
According to the statement, no fewer than 50 terrorists were killed during the fierce gun battle, while several arms and ammunition were recovered from the attackers.
The military also confirmed the death of two soldiers during the encounter, while other personnel sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
The statement explained that the terrorists initially attacked from the western flank before reinforcing from the southern and south-western directions in an attempt to surround the troops.
However, the troops reportedly maintained their positions, employing coordinated ground and indirect fire tactics that forced the attackers to retreat in disarray.
“Troops held their ground with exceptional discipline and tactical composure, systematically dismantling the assault from all directions,” the statement noted.
Military authorities further revealed that the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance support during the operation, enabling precision airstrikes on confirmed terrorist positions and fleeing insurgents.
Recovered items from the operation included eight AK-47 rifles, two General Purpose Machine Guns, Rocket-Propelled Grenade tubes and bombs, ammunition, loaded magazines, bandoliers, and Improvised Explosive Device canisters.
The military added that troops, alongside volunteer forces, are currently carrying out clearance and pursuit operations across the area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent regrouping.
While some military equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and gun trucks, sustained minor damage during the exchange, the military said the camp remained fully secured throughout the attack.
Operation HADIN KAI described the attack as another sign of desperation by terrorist groups facing sustained military pressure across the North-East region.
