In a significant military engagement, troops from Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) at a Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. The assault occurred in the early hours of Saturday, August 15, 2026, but was thwarted thanks to the army's advanced surveillance systems that detected the approaching insurgents.

Acting Military Information Officer for the North-East Joint Task Force, Captain Muhammed Goni, reported that the terrorists launched their attack from two fronts around 2:00 AM. However, the timely detection allowed the deployment of a combat team to engage the attackers effectively. Goni confirmed that the Nigerian Army sustained no casualties during the incident, while the insurgents faced significant losses.

The combat team engaged in a fierce exchange of gunfire with the terrorists, decisively defeating them on one front. A second group of attackers attempted to circumvent the ambush but was met with overwhelming firepower from the troops, leading to their retreat. The Nigerian Army's response was characterized by tactical proficiency and operational effectiveness, forcing the insurgents to withdraw in disarray.

Following the successful defense, the troops initiated a hot pursuit of the fleeing insurgents and conducted thorough searches of the area, recovering a substantial cache of weapons. Items seized included AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, and a camcorder, among other combat equipment.

Surveillance footage later revealed that ISWAP members were seen dragging the bodies of their fallen comrades towards the Timbuktu Triangle, further indicating the heavy toll inflicted on the attackers during the confrontation.

Captain Goni emphasized the army's commitment to maintaining a high state of readiness and operational dominance in the region. He commended the leadership and bravery of the troops from the 162 Amphibious Battalion for their exceptional performance in this encounter. The success of this operation underscores the military's ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the North-East, as they remain steadfast in their mission to deny terrorists freedom of action in the area.

Operation Hadin Kai continues to receive support from the military high command, reinforcing the troops' resolve to dominate the battlespace and ensure lasting stability in the region.