Troops of OPHK Repel ISWAP Attack, Neutralize Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices and Recover Logistics
Mairari, Borno State | 13 December 2025
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists on troops conducting stabilisation operations in Mairari, delivering a decisive blow to the group’s offensive capability in the area. The engagement occurred in the late hours of 12 December 2025 and continued into the early hours of this morning.
During the failed assault, the terrorists attempted to breach the Forward Operating Base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). The VBIEDs were promptly detected and neutralised by the alert and dogged troops, preventing any penetration of the base. CCTV footage from the base confirmed that several terrorists were killed during the encounter, while others sustained serious injuries. Surviving elements were observed evacuating their dead and wounded from the scene.
Following the unsuccessful attack, troops of Sector 3 OPHK/MNJTF, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a comprehensive exploitation of the area in the early hours of 13 December 2025. The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist corpses and a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during the terrorists’ hasty withdrawal.
Items recovered include AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, belts of PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies, sustainment items, and other materials indicative of prolonged terrorist activity. These recoveries further degrade the operational capacity of the terrorists and deny them freedom of action within the area.
Notably, the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by the OPHK defensive fire system, resulting in damage to the road at two separate points. However, no breach of the Forward Operating Base was recorded, underscoring the high level of preparedness and resilience of the troops.
Troops are currently dominating the general area with aggressive fighting patrols to forestall further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of a sustained security presence.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI remain resolute in their commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East region.
