Troops from Operation Hadin Kai have successfully neutralised 15 terrorists, including two prominent commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), during a targeted air strike in Borno State. The operation occurred on October 28, 2026, around 9:20 p.m. in the Marte Local Government Area, specifically near Kerenoa, following intelligence reports that indicated increased terrorist activities in the region.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the military's surveillance operations identified two suspected terrorists traveling on a motorcycle towards a makeshift structure. Further monitoring revealed the presence of additional fighters, prompting the military to launch precision air strikes on the location. A subsequent battle damage assessment confirmed the deaths of 15 terrorists and the destruction of structures associated with their operations.

Among those killed were Abu Musanna and Hassan Abu Huraira, both described by the military as significant figures within ISWAP. The strikes also resulted in several other fighters being wounded, including the ISWAP Wali, or governor, of the area, who reportedly sustained critical injuries during the operation.

The military indicated that a secondary fire observed after the air strikes suggested that the targeted structure may have been used for storing materials related to improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This operation is part of the ongoing efforts by the Joint Task Force to combat terrorism and restore peace and security in the northeastern region of Nigeria.

The military has committed to continuing coordinated operations against terrorist elements, reaffirming its mandate to ensure lasting peace in the area. As the fight against insurgency continues, the Nigerian military remains vigilant in its efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and protect civilians from the threat posed by groups like ISWAP.