Nigerian troops have recorded a major success in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in Borno State, rescuing 86 hostages and arresting 29 suspected terrorist logistics suppliers during coordinated operations under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).
The breakthrough was achieved by soldiers of the 135 Special Forces Battalion, Sector 2 OPHK, following intelligence that terrorists were abducting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya Road on 9 November 2025.
According to military reports, troops swiftly moved to intercept the insurgents, engaging them at Dutse Kura and later pursuing them towards Mangari, resulting in a fierce confrontation that forced the terrorists to abandon both captives and equipment as they fled.
A subsequent clearance operation revealed 11 makeshift hideouts, where troops successfully freed men, women, and children held in captivity. Recovered items from the scene include:
- 1 AK-47 rifle
- 5 magazines containing 73 rounds of ammunition
- PKT ammunition belts
- Several motorcycles and tricycles
- Multiple civilian vehicles
- Other support materials used by the insurgents
The terrorist camp was completely destroyed.
In a parallel operation at Mangada, troops intercepted 29 individuals suspected of supplying logistics to Boko Haram cells. Items seized included:
- Two pickup trucks
- A tricycle
- 1,000 litres of petrol
- Medical kits
- Food items
- Tyres for gun trucks
Military authorities confirmed that no casualties were recorded among Nigerian soldiers during the mission.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their courage and professionalism, urging them to sustain momentum to further degrade terrorist capabilities and ensure security across the North East.
The operations form part of ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent supply networks and deny terrorists the ability to regroup or launch coordinated attacks.
— Sani Uba
Media Information Officer
Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI
9 November 2025
