Military busts terrorists’ detention facilities in Borno, Yobe forests
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have uncovered and destroyed three terrorists’ detention facilities deep inside the Timbuktu Triangle spanning Borno and Yobe states, leading to the escape of more than 70 captives and the neutralisation of at least 32 insurgents.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Northeast Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, describing the development as a major operational breakthrough.
According to him, the success followed carefully coordinated, intelligence-led operations conducted over a two-week period under Operation DESERT SANITY V. The offensive targeted notorious ISWAP detention camps hidden within the forested Timbuktu Triangle in Gujba Local Government Area.
READ ALSO: Troops arrest female suspect accused of supplying drugs to terrorists in North-East
“This achievement marks a significant advance into areas long considered beyond the reach of security forces and underscores the growing effectiveness and sustainability of ongoing counter-insurgency operations,” Uba said.
He explained that sustained pressure from troops forced terrorist elements to abandon key facilities within their strongholds, exposing their inner sanctuaries and denying them both physical space and psychological advantage.
From January 21, 2026, to date, troops uncovered and destroyed three major detention facilities believed to have the capacity to hold up to 300 detainees, highlighting their strategic importance to ISWAP’s operations.
READ ALSO: Troops nab three ISWAP recruitment operatives in Borno
Uba noted that continued offensive actions directly led to the escape of over 70 captives previously held by the terrorists.
“During fierce encounters in the Timbuktu Triangle, ISWAP suffered heavy losses, with no fewer than 32 fighters neutralised, including two Qaids and three Munzirs, while several others sustained serious injuries,” he said.
Following thorough clearance of the area, the detention facilities were demolished to permanently prevent their reuse by the terrorists.
He added that the operation was executed successfully without casualties to troops, reflecting their resilience, professionalism and combat effectiveness.
READ ALSO: Nigerian troops neutralise dozens of terrorist in coordinated operations across Adamawa, Borno
“The destruction of these camps goes beyond a tactical victory. It degrades ISWAP’s internal enforcement structures, disrupts their ransom-taking activities, and weakens their grip on local communities,” Uba said.
He stressed that although the overall security situation in the North East remains calm but unpredictable, troop morale remains high, assuring that the Armed Forces will continue to sustain pressure on terrorist elements to restore lasting peace and security across the region.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, no fewer than 20 people were killed in a fresh attack by suspected bandits on Doma community in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
READ ALSO: Troops arrest suspected suicide bomber, intercept IED materials in Borno
The council chairman, Surajo Aliyu Daudawa, confirmed that the attackers stormed the agrarian community on Tuesday evening, killing residents, burning houses and shops, and fleeing before security personnel could arrive.
Daudawa described the attack as unfortunate, noting that the community had enjoyed relative peace for the past five months, and prayed for an end to the persistent insecurity in the area.
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