The troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have achieved a significant victory with the elimination of a key Boko Haram/ISWAP leader, Abu Khalid, who was identified as the second-in-command of Boko Haram within the Sambisa Forest.
The operation also resulted in the neutralization of ten other terrorists during a night assault in Borno State.
According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Sani Una, Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, issued on February 1, 2026, the operation took place barely 24 hours after troops killed another notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, in the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle.
The successful night raid was carried out by troops from Sector 1 in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) during a targeted offensive at the Komala general area in Konduga Local Government Area. Abu Khalid was a pivotal figure within the terrorist hierarchy, responsible for coordinating operations and logistics within the Sambisa region.
During the operation, troops engaged the terrorists at around 11:00 p.m., leading to the elimination of Abu Khalid and his associates. The troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, magazines, bicycles, logistics, food supplies, and medical consumables. Importantly, no casualties were recorded among the troops.
The operation underscores the high morale and professionalism of the troops, who continue to conduct clearance operations across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle, and other Boko Haram and ISWAP hideouts.
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to intensifying ongoing operations until all terrorist elements are neutralized, with the ultimate goal of restoring peace and economic stability to the region.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their bravery, sacrifice, and dedication in the fight against terrorism, urging them to sustain the momentum in securing the North East.
