Troops of Sector 3 of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have repelled an isolated terrorist infiltration attack on a military location in Monguno, with a commanding officer and six soldiers losing their lives after an improvised explosive device (IED) struck their vehicle.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, said the incident occurred in the late hours of April 12, 2026, at the Charlie 13 location in Monguno.
Uba said the troops came under attack by terrorists but successfully engaged them in a fierce firefight, forcing the insurgents to retreat while maintaining control of the location.
He, however, disclosed that tragedy struck after the exchange of fire when the Commanding Officer moved toward the troops’ position to personally assess the situation.
“Regrettably, the Commanding Officer, while courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel,” he said.
According to the statement, the officer’s actions reflected courage, selfless service, and leadership, as he moved toward his troops despite the risks involved.
The Joint Task Force described the deceased officer and soldiers as brave personnel who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.
Operation Hadin Kai said it deeply mourned the loss of the officer and the six soldiers, noting that their sacrifices would remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the nation.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining operations against insurgents in the North-East region despite the setback.
