Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists fled in disarray early Monday morning after troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) repelled a coordinated assault on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area, Borno State.
The attack, which began at approximately 12:20 a.m. on 10 August 2026, saw a large contingent of terrorists attempt to overrun the military position. However, gallant troops responded with determined and effective firepower, forcing the attackers into a chaotic retreat after sustaining heavy casualties, according to a statement from the Theatre Command.
“During the engagement, troops neutralised several of the terrorists and recovered weapons, ammunition, and communication gadgets,” said Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.
A post-engagement review of surveillance footage further confirmed that multiple terrorist casualties were being evacuated by the retreating fighters, indicating the scale of the defeat inflicted by the military.
Despite the successful containment, the attack briefly breached a section of the base defences, with Rocket Propelled Grenade fires damaging some combat enablers and vehicles. A few troops sustained injuries during the exchange but were promptly airlifted and are currently in stable condition receiving medical attention.
Following the assault, troops have remained firmly deployed in and around the FOB and adjoining areas to dominate the general area, monitor the situation, and prevent any further attempts by the terrorists to re-engage.
The military has advised residents of Gajiram and surrounding communities to remain calm and continue their lawful activities. Members of the public are also encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agencies or call 07084988859 to support intelligence sharing in ongoing operations.
“Troops continue to maintain high vigilance in and around Gajiram while exploitation of the operational area and further assessment of terrorists’ casualties and activities remain ongoing,” Captain Goni added.
Headquarters Theatre Command Operation HADIN KAI reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to sustaining pressure on ISWAP terrorists until lasting peace and stability are fully restored in the North East.
Recovered items and surveillance footage are currently undergoing further operational assessment by military authorities.
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