Terrorists Suffer Heavy Defeat As OPHK Thwarts Night Assaults
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have demonstrated exceptional bravery and operational superiority by successfully repelling coordinated terrorist attacks in Pulka and Mandaragirau, Borno State.
The determined assaults, launched late on February 14, 2026, saw terrorists attempt to overrun military defensive positions in both locations. However, through disciplined engagement, superior firepower, tactical foresight, and unwavering resolve, the troops held their ground and inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers.
Pulka Attack Repelled, Senior Commander Killed
On the same night, a large group of suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists advanced from the Sambisa Forest axis and launched a fierce attack on troops of Sector 1 in Pulka. Troops responded with a well-coordinated counteroffensive, engaging the insurgents in an intense firefight that successfully contained and reversed the assault.
Although a section of the perimeter was briefly breached, resulting in the destruction of some combat enablers and accommodation facilities, swift reinforcement from 26 Brigade with overwhelming firepower forced the terrorists to retreat in disarray toward the Sambisa axis.
Credible intelligence sources confirmed that the terrorists suffered severe casualties, including the death of a senior commander identified as Abou Aisha, who reportedly sustained a critical gunshot wound to the neck. Several weapons and equipment were also lost by the fleeing insurgents.
Notably, there were no casualties among troops during the Pulka engagement.
Mandaragirau Defence Holds Firm
In a related development, troops of Sector 2 at Mandaragirau came under a coordinated multi-pronged attack by ISWAP terrorists mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles.
Anticipating such action, troops had tactically positioned combat teams that decisively engaged the attackers. Following a fierce exchange of fire, the assault was successfully thwarted without any breach of the defensive position.
Regrettably, some gallant military personnel and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price in the defence of their location, while a few soldiers sustained injuries. The wounded were promptly evacuated by the Air Component of OPHK and Nigerian Army Aviation platforms for medical attention.
Their sacrifice reflects the highest traditions of service, courage, and commitment to the defence of Nigeria.
Follow-Up Operations Reveal Enemy Losses
Subsequent exploitation operations along the Kimba axis revealed blood trails, shallow graves, and abandoned items. Eyewitness accounts also confirmed the evacuation of multiple terrorist casualties toward Kimba, further underscoring the scale of enemy losses.
The Military High Command commended the bravery, professionalism, and fighting spirit of the troops, noting that the failed attacks reflect the growing desperation of terrorist elements under sustained operational pressure.
Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks, protecting communities, and restoring lasting peace and economic stability across the North East region.
