Troops Repel ISWAP/Boko Haram Attack in Kirawa, Neutralise 12 Terrorists
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully repelled an attempted attack by suspected ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists on a military formation in Kirawa, along the Nigeria–Cameroon border in Borno State.
The failed assault occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 22, 2026, during ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY and other counter-terrorism operations within Sector 1 of the North-East theatre.
According to military authorities, suspected terrorists attempted to infiltrate positions occupied by troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion and allied forces in the Kirawa axis. However, the movement was swiftly detected by vigilant troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), who responded with intense firepower.
The terrorists were reportedly forced to abandon the operation and retreat towards the Cameroon border after suffering heavy casualties during the encounter.
Military sources disclosed that Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets, alongside air platforms of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and partner forces, provided coordinated support throughout the operation.
Following the gun battle, troops confirmed the neutralisation of at least 12 terrorists, while several others reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds. Blood trails were observed along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, indicating additional casualties.
Security forces also recovered several weapons and combat equipment from the scene, including AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenade systems, ammunition, and a PKT machine gun.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, supported by the CJTF, have since intensified exploitation operations in the area to track fleeing insurgents and recover additional weapons and materials.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups across the North-East until insurgent activities are completely dismantled.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their bravery, professionalism, and rapid response, describing the successful defence of the location as another major operational achievement within the week.
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