Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded significant operational successes in the ongoing offensive within the Timbuktu Triangle, clearing key terrorist strongholds and further degrading insurgent networks in the North-East.
In the latest phase of the operation, troops advanced deep into the triangle and successfully dominated notorious terrorist enclaves in Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. Military sources said troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorists during the operation, engaging them with heavy firepower and neutralising several of the insurgents.
On January 20, 2026, while consolidating positions at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). One of the VBIEDs was successfully neutralised through swift and vigilant action, while the second breached the defensive perimeter, affecting some logistics platforms.
The incident led to the loss of some soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, while others sustained injuries. The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital. The evacuation was supported by Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, working in synergy with other Army air assets to provide continuous aerial overwatch and ensure the safety of ground forces. More terrorists were neutralised during the process.
Further evidence of heavy terrorist losses emerged as troops discovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies killed during previous encounters and buried by their cohorts. The military said the discovery exposes the scale of casualties suffered by the terrorists and undermines their propaganda claims.
The military high command noted that the security situation across the Theatre remains generally stable, with troops maintaining high morale and fighting efficiency. Operations are continuing with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements as troops remain resolute in their mandate to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security in the North-East.
