SAA event in Nigeria on Fri 22nd May 2026

Troops Repel Cross-Border Attack, Neutralise 12 Terrorists in Borno Operation 

By: Zagazola Makama 

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have repelled an attempted cross-border attack by suspected ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists, neutralising 12 fighters during a firefight in the Kirawa axis of Borno State.

Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 22 during ongoing Operation Desert Sanity V and Siege Operations.

According to the sources, the terrorists attempted to infiltrate troops’ location from the Cameroon axis but were detected while approaching and engaged with superior firepower.

The troops, said to be on high alert, swiftly responded to the incursion and forced the attackers to retreat in disarray back across the border into Cameroon, with several of the terrorists reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds.

The sources added that the operation was supported by intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) assets as well as air component strikes and partner coordination.

Preliminary battle damage assessment indicated that 12 terrorists were neutralised, while an unspecified number sustained injuries during the encounter. One soldier was reported wounded in action.

No equipment losses were recorded on the side of the troops, while several items were recovered from the terrorists, including AK-47 rifles, RPG components, rounds of ammunition, and a packet of assorted materials.

Military authorities said troops have maintained their positions and continue to conduct exploitation operations in the general area to prevent regrouping by fleeing elements.

They added that the security situation in the axis remains calm but unpredictable, urging continued vigilance and sustained operational pressure across all fronts.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring stability in the North-East theatre of operations.