Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded further operational successes in the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY, destroying multiple terrorist camps, recovering arms and logistics, and decisively repelling coordinated attacks by insurgents operating within the Timbuktu Triangle of the North East.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that on Sunday, 18 January 2026, troops advanced from their harbour area to conduct deliberate, intelligence-led operations across identified terrorist enclaves at Chilaria, Garin Faruk and Abirma.
The operation was conducted with strong support from the Air Component of OPHK, which provided persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) coverage over the axis. According to the statement, the effective air-to-ground synergy enabled real-time tracking of terrorist movements, deterred enemy reinforcement, and enhanced the precision and confidence of ground operations.
During the offensive, troops recovered items of significant military and logistical value, including Baofeng radios, mobile phones, five AK-47 magazines, several rounds of 7.62×39mm special ammunition, 7.62mm NATO belted ammunition, Boko Haram/ISWAP flags, links of 12.7×108mm ammunition, as well as diesel-powered grinding machines. Also recovered were large quantities of medical supplies, several bags of grains, a pick-up truck, underground logistics storage facilities, and a Petroleum, Oil and Lubricant (POL) dump, all of which further degraded the terrorists’ operational and sustainment capabilities.
The statement further revealed that at about midday, advancing troops came under armed drone attacks by the terrorists. Despite the threat, the troops maintained momentum and continued the offensive. A second attempt by the terrorists later in the evening was also decisively repelled, forcing them to withdraw and reaffirming the troops’ dominance of the area.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba noted that troop morale remains high despite sustained engagements, while fighting efficiency continues to be maintained. The general security situation in the area is assessed as calm but unpredictable, with troops remaining vigilant and at a high state of readiness.
The Military High Command reaffirmed that operations will continue, stressing that troops remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorist threats, protect civilians, and restore lasting peace and stability in the North East.
