Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) have neutralized a notorious Boko Haram/JAS commander, Amir Abu Fatima, along with key deputies, in a high-stakes operation in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The targeted operation, carried out in the early hours of Friday at Alayaru village near the Alagarno general area, marks a critical success in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the northeast.

Acting on credible intelligence, Special Forces led a swift and coordinated assault combining land, maritime, and aerial assets to strike the insurgent hideout.

A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued as troops overwhelmed the terrorists with superior firepower, prompting many to flee the scene.

In the aftermath, three high-profile insurgents were confirmed killed, including the wanted commander Abu Fatima. His key lieutenants, Abu Maryam and Abu Modu, a known improvised explosive device (IED) expert, were also neutralized in the raid.

Air component platforms provided close air support throughout the mission, while surveillance and reconnaissance were carried out by MNJTF air assets to track escaping insurgents.

Following the operation, troops recovered an arsenal of weapons and explosive materials, including: AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines, hand grenades, assorted ammunition, primed IEDs concealed in 4-litre kegs, a radio set, mobile phones, batteries, pressure plates, detonating cords, sapper cable, and motorcycles and spare parts

According to Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations for Operation HADIN KAI, the success of the operation underlines the evolving strategy and heightened readiness of Nigerian forces and their regional partners to counter extremist tactics and prevent further attacks.

“This joint intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing effectiveness of our coordinated approach across land, sea, and air,” said Captain Kovangiya. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security efforts with timely and credible information.”

Captain Kovangiya reaffirmed the military’s commitment to stabilizing the region and uprooting terrorist threats, as similar operations continue to gain ground across the North East theatre.