Troops repel ISWAP attack, kill many insurgents in Borno

Troops under the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded another major battlefield success after repelling an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attack and launching a powerful counter-offensive in the Buratai area of Borno State.

The Force Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, made this known via a statement issued on Friday, June 19, 2026.

Goni disclosed that the incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, when ISWAP fighters mounted coordinated attacks on military positions at Dusten Kura and along Chara Road in Buratai, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.

Goni said the troops quickly detected the incursion with the support of intelligence surveillance systems and responded with superior firepower in a joint air and ground operation.

He stated that the counter-attack, supported by precision air strikes from the Nigerian Air Force, disrupted the terrorists’ assault, inflicting heavy casualties, and forcing the insurgents to retreat in disarray.

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The Force spokesman added that no casualties were recorded on the side of the troops, while ISWAP fighters suffered significant losses in personnel and equipment during the encounter.

Goni said: “This latest success underscores the high state of readiness of OPHK troops and the synergy between the ground and air components in maintaining relentless pressure on the terrorists.

“The Theatre Command remains committed to denying insurgents freedom of action and ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens across the North East theatre.

“The public is urged to continue providing timely intelligence to security forces and to remain vigilant. OPHK would comtinue to sustain aggressive offensive operations to decisively degrade terrorist capabilities and restore lasting peace to the region.”