Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have breached a fortified Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) stronghold, capturing and destroying major detention facilities deep within the forested Timbuktu Triangle.
The operation, conducted under the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY V, unfolded over the past two weeks. Sustained offensive pressure and intelligence led operations forced terrorist elements to abandon critical sites in the area, which spans Gujba Local Government Area and stretches across Borno and Yobe states.
The advance marks a notable penetration into areas previously considered terrorist sanctuaries, denying ISWAP both physical space and psychological advantage.
The breakthrough was announced in a press statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, on Monday, February 3, 2026.
The statement noted that, from January 21, troops uncovered and destroyed three major terrorist detention facilities concealed within the Triangle.
Preliminary assessments indicated the camps had a combined capacity to hold up to 300 detainees, highlighting their strategic role in ISWAP’s operational and coercive framework.
The sustained military action directly enabled the escape of over 70 captives, many of whom have since resurfaced in villages including Goniri, Buratai, and Mandaragirau.
One escapee, Malam Jidda Ba Jidda, abducted from Kufi village in December 2025, disclosed he fled during a gun duel between the terrorists and advancing troops in the forest.
ISWAP suffered heavy combat losses during the series of engagements, with no fewer than 32 fighters neutralized, including two Qaids and three Munzirs, while several others sustained serious injuries.
Following a thorough clearance, the three facilities were deliberately demolished to permanently deny ISWAP any chance of reoccupation.
The military noted that the operation was conducted successfully without incident, reflecting the professionalism and combat effectiveness of the troops.
While the security situation in the Theatre remains calm but unpredictable, the Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, denying them safe havens, and restoring lasting peace across the region.
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