The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has sustained its relentless offensive against terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin, neutralising 16 suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during coordinated air and artillery strikes on three suspected terrorist locations in the Tunbunma area of South Lake Chad, following intelligence on the presence of key terrorist leaders and fighters.
A statement signed by Captain Mohammed Goni Acting Military Information Headquarters JTF north east operation hadin Kai said the operation was conducted between 01:00 a.m. and 02:00 a.m. on 26 October 2026, using air and ground weapon systems to engage the identified locations.
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Battle Damage Assessment indicates that 16 ISWAP fighters were neutralised across the targeted locations. Among those reportedly killed were Abu Zubiru, an Arab national, and two associates, Baana Nglewa and Jindullah Sadiq, alongside other fighters. Additionally, Abu Saleem, identified as the Wali of Tunbunma, sustained severe injuries alongside seven others.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirms that there is no hiding place for terrorists and remains committed to restoring peace and normalcy while conducting intelligence-led operations against terrorist elements in the North East. Members of the public are encouraged to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
