Troops foil ISWAP, Boko Haram attack in North East
Nigerian Army Thwarts Terror Attack in North East
The Nigerian Army reported that troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) successfully thwarted an attempted attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram militants early on May 22, 2026. The confrontation occurred in the Kirawa area, part of the Sector 1 operational zone under Operation HADIN KAI.
A statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, noted that the assailants attempted to infiltrate the positions of the 153 Task Force Battalion and allied units along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
“The attack was quickly identified and met with overwhelming firepower from alert troops and the Civilian Joint Task Force, who successfully contained the assault,” the statement said.
The suspected terrorists were ultimately forced to abandon their mission, retreating towards Cameroon. The encounter reportedly inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers.
The army utilized intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets, as well as support from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and partner forces, throughout the operation. Following the skirmish, troops confirmed the neutralization of 12 militants, with several others retreating with visible injuries.
Seized items included several AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenade systems, ammunition, and a PKT machine gun, which will further diminish the terrorists’ combat capabilities in the region.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force, have maintained vigilance while continuing operations to track fleeing militants and recover additional weapons.
The Joint Task Force emphasized its commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorist groups until they are completely neutralized in the area. The Military High Command praised the soldiers for their professionalism and quick response, encouraging them to sustain operational momentum in the interest of national security.
