Top ISWAP Commander Killed as Troops Smash Terror Cells Across North-East
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded major battlefield successes across Nigeria’s North-East, eliminating a senior terrorist commander and disrupting multiple insurgent operations through intelligence-led offensives.
Military sources confirmed that a top ISWAP leader identified as Julaibib was killed during a clash around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State on January 30, 2026. His death is reported to have caused confusion within ISWAP ranks in the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle, with several fighters also neutralised during the encounter.
In a separate ambush between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities, troops working with the Civilian Joint Task Force killed three terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles. Another ambush at Tsokorok in Gwoza Local Government Area forced insurgents to retreat, leaving one fighter dead and two motorcycles behind, while troops recorded no casualties.
Operations extended into Adamawa State, where soldiers foiled an attempted armed robbery in Mubi North. Two suspects were arrested, and weapons and stolen items were recovered before they were handed over to police authorities. Earlier patrols along the Amtasa–Washim axis in Hong Local Government Area also led to a gunfight with terrorists, the rescue of an abducted woman, and the recovery of firearms and ammunition.
The military says the security situation across the theatre remains stable, adding that operations will continue to target terrorist networks and criminal elements while supporting efforts to restore peace and normal economic activities in the region.
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