OPHK Forces Repel ISWAP Assault on Mairari Base, Destroy VBIEDs and Seize Terrorist Assets
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully foiled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, delivering a major setback to the terrorist group’s activities in the area.
The attack, which started late on Friday, December 12, 2025, and extended into the early hours of Saturday, December 13, was repelled through a combination of effective ground defence and air support.
According to military sources, the attackers attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). However, vigilant troops detected the threats early and neutralised both vehicles before they could reach the FOB, preventing any breach of the facility.
CCTV footage and on-ground assessments indicated that several terrorists were killed during the engagement, while others sustained injuries and were seen withdrawing their dead and wounded from the area.
In the aftermath of the failed assault, troops of OPHK Sector 3, alongside the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out extensive exploitation operations around the base. The follow-up action led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition and logistics abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.
Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication equipment, combat kits and medical supplies, further weakening the group’s operational capability.
The neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by defensive fire, resulting in damage at two points along the road leading to the base. Military authorities confirmed that no breach occurred and no significant damage was recorded within the FOB.
Troops have since intensified patrols and clearance operations in and around Mairari to forestall further attacks and reassure residents of sustained security presence.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorist threats, protecting civilians and restoring lasting peace and stability across the North East, noting that the failed attack underscores the preparedness and professionalism of Nigerian troops in the theatre.
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