Troops neutralise terrorists, rescue hostages in Borno

Our soldiers have received neither the necessary support nor the required incentives to tackle this problem

…again, live ammunition abandoned in Maiduguri

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have recorded another significant success following a well-coordinated operation in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, which resulted in the killing of several terrorists and the rescue of kidnapped civilians.

This was disclosed on Sunday by Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai, while speaking to journalists in Maiduguri.

Read also: Troops foil terrorist incursion, kill commander in Borno

He said: “In the early hours of 4 January 2026, troops in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), engaged terrorists at a known crossing point along the Sojiri axis.

“The operation resulted in the neutralisation of 5 terrorists without any casualties to own troops, demonstrating the effectiveness and professionalism of the security forces. Notably, the troops successfully rescued 3 hostages abducted by the terrorists and recovered AK-47 Rifles during the operation.”

Sani added, “This operation underscores the commitment of OPHK to both offensive action against terrorist elements and the protection of civilians, while highlighting the value of cooperation with local security partners. Troops’ morale remains high, and security forces continue to maintain dominance across the Theatre despite the dynamic security environment.

“OPHK remains steadfast in its resolve to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace in the North East.”

Meanwhile, a fresh cache of live ammunition has been discovered in the Kumshe area of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, the Borno State capital, days after a large cache was recovered by the troops in Bulunkutu.

A resident of the area, who spoke to BusinessDay, said police operatives and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) were on the ground at the scene beside the railway line as of Sunday.

“The police and CJTF are already securing the area; the anti-bomb squad are currently on the ground,” the source said.

Kumshe is located close to the former headquarters of the late Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Yusuf, popularly known as Markas, a location historically linked to insurgent activities.

Security authorities are yet to issue an official statement, as investigations continue.

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