Nigerian Troops Neutralize 18 Terrorists in Bulabulin Forest, Clear Insurgent Enclaves

In a significant display of coordinated military might, troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), in collaboration with the Sector 2 Stabilisation Force Brigade and the Civilian Joint Task Force, have achieved substantial successes against terrorist elements. The operation, codenamed Operation Desert Sanity V, saw the elimination of 18 terrorists in the Bulabulin Forest and the clearing of insurgent strongholds in the Timbuktu axis. This decisive action has forced numerous other terrorists to flee, many sustaining injuries, thereby degrading their operational capacity in the region.

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All identified life-support structures were destroyed during the operation. Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of nine AK-47 rifles, three PKT anti-aircraft machine guns, five motorcycles, assorted ammunition, and materials used for the fabrication of improvised explosive devices, significantly disrupting terrorist logistics and operational capabilities within the axis.

The offensive, bolstered by crucial support from the Air Component Command, involved meticulous clearance operations targeting terrorist enclaves in areas such as Mar, Subdu, Yaro Lawanti, and Yaro Shuwari, as well as along the Kamadogu Yobe stretch within Bulabulin Forest. During these operations, all identified life-support structures used by the insurgents were destroyed. The subsequent exploitation of the area yielded a significant haul of arms and ammunition, including nine AK-47 rifles, three PKT anti-aircraft machine guns, and materials for fabricating improvised explosive devices. This disruption of terrorist logistics and capabilities is a critical blow to their ability to wage war.

Simultaneously, along the Timbuktu axis, specifically the Wajiroko–Sabongari corridor, troops engaged terrorists with precision air support. Demonstrating remarkable resilience and tactical discipline, the ground forces neutralized insurgents effectively. Further exploitation in this area uncovered seven confirmed neutralised terrorists, with evidence suggesting even higher casualties among the fleeing enemy. Recovered items included AK-47 rifles, RPG tubes, a substantial cache of ammunition, and communication equipment, further crippling the terrorists' network.

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Demonstrating resilience and tactical discipline, the troops maintained their positions and effectively neutralised the insurgents. Further exploitation revealed seven neutralised terrorists, while additional blood trails and body parts suggested higher casualties inflicted during the engagement.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for Operation Hadin Kai, highlighted the pivotal role of the Air Component Command, providing continuous Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) that enabled accurate targeting and real-time situational awareness for the ground assaults. Precision air interdiction strikes were instrumental in decimating terrorist positions and pursuing fleeing elements, ensuring the success of the synchronized air-land offensive. Follow-up operations are ongoing to consolidate gains, pursue fleeing terrorists, and prevent any regrouping, demonstrating the sustained commitment to restoring peace and security in the affected regions.

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The Air Component Command played a decisive role in both operations by providing sustained Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), which enhanced accurate target acquisition and real-time situational awareness for coordinated ground assaults.