Nigerian troops kill 50 terrorists, top ISWAP commander in Borno - Official

Nigerian troops have intensified operations in the North-east, achieving a significant success by neutralizing more than 50 terrorists, including a high-ranking ISWAP commander, in Borno state. The operation, codenamed 'Operation Hadin Kai,' also led to the arrest of multiple collaborators.

A key development in the operation was a precision airstrike that targeted terrorist commanders near Kirta and Arina Ciki. This strike reportedly killed several leaders, including Khalifa Umar, identified as a member of the ISWAP Shura Council. Military authorities stated that sustained air offensives are forcing insurgents to abandon island strongholds and move towards the mainland under pressure.

In parallel operations within Maiduguri and surrounding areas, troops apprehended three individuals suspected of supplying logistics to ISWAP and acting as informants. A deserter soldier, who had absconded with his weapon and was linked to criminal activities, was also arrested. Recovered items from these suspects include a rifle with magazines, a vehicle, petrol, and other materials essential for supporting terrorist operations.

The military affirmed that operations would continue to degrade terrorist capabilities and restore normalcy. The North-east remains the focal point of Nigeria's counter-terrorism campaign, with evolving strategies combining intelligence, surveillance, and precision strikes to disrupt terrorist command structures and logistics.