Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Nigerian troops operating under Operation HADIN KAI have recorded another significant operational success in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign in the North-East, following the neutralisation of three terrorist suicide bombers along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The operation, described by military authorities as deliberate and intelligence-driven, prevented what could have been a deadly attack on civilian populations in the volatile border communities of the area.
The encounter occurred after sustained covert intelligence activities identified the movement and intent of the suicide bombers, who were reportedly en route to carry out coordinated attacks on soft civilian targets. Acting on this intelligence, troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working closely with local volunteer forces familiar with the terrain and movement patterns in the area, tracked the suspects and intercepted them before they could reach populated locations. The swift engagement led to the neutralisation of all three suicide bombers without civilian casualties.
During the operation, troops recovered suicide vests and other improvised explosive device materials in the possession of the terrorists. These explosive items were promptly secured and rendered safe by explosive ordnance disposal personnel, preventing potential secondary explosions and ensuring the safety of troops and nearby communities. Military sources said the recovery of the devices confirmed the imminent nature of the planned attacks and underscored the importance of pre-emptive intelligence-led action in countering the evolving tactics of terrorist groups in the region.
In addition to neutralising the suicide bombers, troops also inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorist escorts accompanying them. According to field reports, the escorts attempted to provide cover for the bombers during the interception but were overwhelmed by sustained fire from advancing troops. The surviving elements were forced to flee under pressure, retreating into the rugged Mandara Mountains, a long-established enclave used by terrorist groups as hideouts and logistics bases.
As troops exploited the area following the encounter, four AK-47 rifles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists were recovered, along with other items believed to be linked to their operations. Two motorcycles used by the terrorists for mobility were also destroyed during the engagement, further degrading the group’s capacity to move quickly across difficult terrain and carry out surprise attacks on rural communities.
Preliminary intelligence assessments by military authorities indicate that the neutralised suicide bombers were dispatched from the Mandara Mountains by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad faction of Boko Haram terrorists. The faction, known for its use of suicide attacks and IEDs, has continued to pose a serious threat despite sustained military pressure over recent years. Security analysts note that the group has increasingly relied on suicide bombers as a tactic of desperation, targeting civilians and security formations alike in an effort to remain relevant and instil fear.
The Guduf–Pulka axis and surrounding areas of Gwoza Local Government have long been strategic targets for terrorist groups due to their proximity to the Cameroon border and the Mandara Mountain range. The difficult terrain, characterised by rocky hills and dense cover, has historically provided terrorists with escape routes and concealment. Military officials say this reality has necessitated a combination of ground operations, intelligence gathering, and close cooperation with local communities to effectively counter terrorist activity in the area.
In response to the latest threat, troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified efforts to detect, track, and neutralise suicide bombers and other terrorist elements operating from the Mandara Mountains enclave. These efforts are being driven by enhanced human intelligence, communication intercepts, and other intelligence-gathering capabilities aimed at disrupting terrorist planning cycles before attacks can be executed. The military says the focus remains on proactive operations rather than reactive responses, with the goal of denying terrorists the initiative.
The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI has also continued to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies, including intelligence and law enforcement bodies, as well as community-based volunteer forces across Borno and neighbouring Yobe States. This multi-layered approach is designed to close operational gaps, improve information flow, and ensure rapid response to emerging threats. Local volunteer groups, often drawn from communities that have suffered directly from insurgent violence, play a critical role by providing timely information on suspicious movements and unfamiliar individuals.
Alongside kinetic operations, the military has intensified public enlightenment campaigns across affected communities to encourage vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities. Residents are being urged to remain alert, particularly in areas close to known terrorist routes, and to cooperate fully with security agencies. Military authorities emphasise that community participation is essential in defeating terrorism, noting that early warnings from civilians have repeatedly helped avert attacks and save lives.
The latest operation comes amid renewed concerns about the use of suicide bombers in parts of the North-East, even as overall levels of insurgent violence have declined compared to the peak years of the conflict. Security experts warn that while terrorist groups have lost significant territory and leadership figures, remnants continue to adapt their tactics, exploiting vulnerable targets and seeking opportunities to undermine public confidence and stability.
For residents of Gwoza and surrounding communities, the successful neutralisation of the suicide bombers has brought a measure of relief, reinforcing confidence in the ability of security forces to protect lives and property. Community leaders have welcomed the operation, describing it as evidence that sustained pressure on terrorist enclaves is yielding tangible results, while also urging authorities to maintain a visible security presence to deter reprisals.
Operation HADIN KAI has reiterated its resolve to sustain offensive pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre of operations. Military commanders say the objective remains the complete degradation of terrorist operational capabilities, the dismantling of their networks, and the restoration of lasting peace and normalcy to communities affected by years of insurgency. They have assured the public that troops remain motivated and committed to their mandate, despite the complex challenges posed by the terrain and the adaptive nature of the threat.
As operations continue across Borno and Yobe States, the Nigerian military maintains that intelligence-driven actions, community cooperation, and inter-agency synergy will remain central to its strategy. The success along the Guduf–Pulka axis stands as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, timely intelligence, and decisive action in preventing attacks and safeguarding innocent civilians from the persistent threat of terrorism in the region.
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