Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have uncovered mass graves containing the remains of about 20 terrorists during sustained military operations in the Timbuktu Triangle, dealing a major blow to terrorist networks operating in the area.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, the military said the discovery was made as troops continued their advance and consolidation across key locations within the Timbuktu Triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas. The statement explained that the graves were used by fleeing terrorists to secretly bury their dead following intense encounters with troops, an indication of the heavy losses suffered by the groups in recent weeks.
According to the military, the mass graves were uncovered during clearance and dominance operations aimed at flushing out remaining terrorist elements. Troops reportedly made intermittent contact with insurgents attempting to escape and engaged them with superior firepower, leading to further neutralisation of terrorists.
The military noted that the discovery exposes the scale of casualties inflicted on the terrorists and undermines propaganda claims often circulated by terrorist groups to exaggerate their strength and successes.
Meanwhile, on January 20, 2026, troops consolidating at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). One of the VBIED was successfully neutralised through swift action, while the second breached the defensive position and affected some logistics platforms.
During the incident, some soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) lost their lives, while others sustained injuries. The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, with Nigerian Air Force platforms providing aerial overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces.
The military said the overall security situation across the North East Theatre remains generally stable, adding that troop morale and fighting efficiency remain high as operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians, dismantling terrorist networks, and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
