The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has recorded another significant operational success following a well-coordinated joint offensive against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in the Kopre Mountain general area of Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State, as ongoing search and rescue operations intensify.
Acting on credible intelligence, a joint force comprising the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) Tactical Team and newly inducted troops of 226 Battalion, recently deployed to Sector 4, Adamawa State, under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, conducted a stealth insertion into the target area.
Navigating the difficult and rugged terrain, the joint force successfully penetrated the terrorists’ enclave and launched a precision strike on the camp in the early hours of 27 August 2026.
The operation was conducted in furtherance of sustained efforts to locate and rescue victims being held by terrorist elements, including persons abducted from Mussa community in May 2026 and the Lassa school children abducted in June 2026.
During the operation, troops successfully closed in on the terrorist camp and engaged the terrorists in two separate encounters. Following fierce engagements, over 21 terrorists were neutralised, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
The joint force subsequently dominated the area, dismantled the entire terrorist camp and destroyed associated logistics infrastructure, thereby further degrading the terrorists’ operational capability within the area.
During exploitation of the location, several motorcycles, bicycles and jerrycans containing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), believed to have been used to support terrorist logistics and mobility, were destroyed in situ. The troops also recovered several AK-47 rifles, AK-47 magazines and a substantial quantity of 7.62mm Special ammunition.
The successful operation underscores the sustained operational tempo, tactical proficiency, intelligence exploitation capability and combat effectiveness of the joint force.
It further demonstrates the capacity of troops to project combat power into difficult and restrictive terrain, dismantle terrorist enclaves and deny terrorist elements freedom of action across the Theatre of Operations.
The Military High Command commends the gallantry, professionalism, resilience and seamless coordination displayed by the ONSA Tactical Team and troops of Operation HADIN KAI during the operation. Their decisive action reflects the determination of the Armed Forces and other security stakeholders to relentlessly pursue and degrade terrorist elements wherever they may seek refuge.
The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, remains resolute in sustaining aggressive, intelligence-driven operations aimed at locating and rescuing abducted persons, dismantling terrorist strongholds, degrading their logistics and fighting capabilities, and denying them the freedom to operate.
The Theatre reassures the public that ongoing operations will be sustained until all abducted persons are located and rescued, while efforts continue towards restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
MOHAMMED GONI
Captain
Acting Military Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East)
Operation HADIN KAI
MAIDUGURI
27 August 2026
