Troops Dismantle Terrorist Networks in Timbuktu Triangle, Foil Vehicle-Borne IED Attacks
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded significant operational gains in the ongoing military campaign across the Timbuktu Triangle, as sustained offensives continue to weaken and disrupt terrorist networks in the North East.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, on January 20, 2026.
In the latest phase of operations, troops successfully cleared and dominated several key terrorist strongholds, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. Military sources disclosed that advancing forces made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorist elements during the operations and engaged them with heavy firepower, resulting in the neutralisation of several insurgents.
On January 20, 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). Through swift and coordinated action, one of the explosive-laden vehicles was successfully neutralised. The second, however, breached the defensive position and damaged some logistics platforms.
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The attack led to casualties among gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, with some paying the supreme price and others sustaining injuries. The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital for medical treatment.
Throughout the evacuation process, Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component, working in synergy with other Nigerian Army air assets, provided continuous aerial overwatch. This ensured the safe extraction of casualties and enhanced the security of ground forces, who continued to neutralise fleeing terrorist elements in the area.
In a further indication of the heavy losses suffered by the insurgents, troops discovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies believed to have been killed during recent encounters and buried by their cohorts. The military said the discovery exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and undermines propaganda claims by the groups.
Across the theatre of operations, the security situation remains generally stable, with troops maintaining high morale and operational efficiency. Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining pressure on fleeing terrorists, protecting civilians, dismantling insurgent networks, and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
By PRNigeria
