Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, Borno State, destroying two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) and inflicting heavy losses on the attackers.
The attack, which began late on December 12 and continued into the early hours of December 13, 2025, was foiled through coordinated ground and air operations by OPHK troops.
Military sources said the terrorists attempted to breach the base using two VBIEDs, but the devices were promptly detected and neutralised by the troops before they could penetrate the FOB.
CCTV footage and field reports confirmed that several terrorists were killed during the encounter, while others sustained serious injuries and were seen evacuating their dead and wounded.
Following the failed attack, troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted exploitation of the area.
The operation led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition and logistics abandoned by the fleeing terrorists. Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear and medical supplies.
The two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by defensive fire, resulting in damage to two sections of the road. There was, however, no breach of the forward operating base.
Troops are currently carrying out aggressive patrols in the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents of sustained security presence.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to defeating terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace and stability in the North-East, noting that the failed attack highlighted the preparedness and professionalism of troops under Operation HADIN KAI.
