Troops Repel ISWAP Attack on Mandaragirau Base, Neutralize Terrorists

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, operating under Operation HADIN KAI, repelled an attempted assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on Forward Operating Base Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State early Saturday, the military said in a statement.

The attack began at approximately 2:00 a.m. when terrorists launched a simultaneous offensive from two directions, according to a release signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer at the headquarters of the Joint Task Force North East. Surveillance systems detected the advancing fighters, prompting the deployment of a combat team to intercept them.

Troops engaged the attackers in a heavy exchange of fire. A second group attempting to bypass the combat team and infiltrate the base was also repulsed. The coordinated defence forced the terrorists to withdraw, after which troops launched a hot pursuit, exploiting the contact area and the routes used during the retreat.

Several terrorists were neutralised during the operation. Recovered items included AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher with bombs and chargers, a camcorder, and other equipment. Surveillance footage later showed the insurgents dragging the bodies of some of their colleagues toward the Timbuktu Triangle.

The military reported no casualties among its personnel. The Theatre Command commended the troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion for their swift and effective response.

“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its determination to dominate the battlespace, deny terrorists freedom of action, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East,” the statement said.

The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by ISWAP in the region, particularly around key military installations in southern Borno. Mandaragirau, located in Biu LGA, has previously been targeted due to its strategic position along supply routes and its proximity to the Sambisa Forest and Timbuktu Triangle, known hideouts for insurgent groups.

Security analysts note that the successful defence reflects improved surveillance and rapid-response capabilities within the theatre command. However, the recovery of heavy weaponry such as an RPG launcher indicates that the insurgents retain significant offensive capacity.

Operation HADIN KAI, the successor to Operation Lafiya Dole, continues to conduct clearance operations across the North East, aiming to degrade terrorist networks and facilitate the return of displaced communities. The military has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.