Troops repel attack on Kirawa axis, kill 12 suspected terrorists in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, killed 12 suspected terrorists on Friday after repelling an attempted attack on military positions along the Kirawa axis in Borno State, near the Nigeria-Cameroon border. The operation, which took place in the early hours of May 22, 2026, unfolded as a number of suspected ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters tried to infiltrate positions held by the 153 Task Force Battalion and associated forces.

The attackers were detected early and met with overwhelming firepower from alert troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, who held their ground and contained the assault. Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets, alongside platforms of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai and partner forces, provided coordinated support throughout the engagement. The terrorists were forced to abort their mission and withdraw in confusion toward the Cameroon side of the border, sustaining heavy casualties. One soldier was wounded in the exchange, and no equipment was lost by the troops.

Following the encounter, troops confirmed the neutralization of 12 terrorists. Several others were observed retreating with gunshot...