Military goes offensive, clears Boko Haram networks in Timbuktu Triangle, kills over 20 terrorists

.As Operation Fansan Yamma eliminates more insurgents, rescues 62 hostages in coordinated operations

.Troops discover terrorists mass grave in Borno

AHMED MARI, Maiduguri, and CHIDIMMA UCHEGBU, Abuja

The troops of the Northeast Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) of the Nigerian Military have cleared and denied freedom.of action to members of the Boko Haram and Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) in the Timbuktu Triangle general area.

The theater Command Operation Hadin Kai in a statement issued by its spokesman, Lt Col Sani Uba said “Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have sustained their advance into the Timbuktu Triangle, recording significant operational gains and further degrading terrorist networks operating within the area.

In the latest phase of operations, troops successfully cleared and dominated key terrorist locations across the triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas.

During the conduct of these operations, troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorist elements and engaged them with high volumes of fire, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists”, the Military said.

The theater Command further said “On 20 January 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area approximately 6 km North of Chilaria, troops encountered 2 Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED).

Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised.

The second VBIED, however, breached the defensive position affecting some logistics platforms.”.

The OPHK said however in the course of this attack, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price, while others sustained injuries. .

The statement further said the wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital, adding that throughout the evacuation, Nigerian Airforce platforms from the Air Component in synergy with other Nigerian Army air platforms provided continuous overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces neutralising more terrorists in the process.

In a further indication of the heavy losses suffered by the terrorists, troops discovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies killed during encounters with troops in the Timbuktu Triangle and buried by their cohorts.

This discovery exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits terrorist propaganda narratives. the statement said.

The Commander assured that the security situation remains generally stable., adding that Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high, and operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements.

They also assured that they remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East.

Incidentally, Troops of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA operating under Sector 2 have also successfully neutralized 2 terrorists in Kebbi State and rescued 62 hostages in Munhaye Forest of Zamfara State.

These operations were conducted in close collaboration with allied security forces and local vigilantes, demonstrating a unified front against banditry and terrorism.

This was contained in the statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

In Kebbi State, troops
Acting on actionable intelligence ambushed members of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group near the border between Augie Local Government Area (Kebbi State) and Binji Local Government Area (Sokoto State).

The operation, executed in Kerani Village, resulted in the elimination of 2 terrorists and the recovery of 2 motorcycles used by the insurgents.

The 2 terrorists were wearing camouflage uniforms with 2 motorcycles padded with thick blankets and fitted with equipment for long range movement including hand tyre pumps.

In Zamfara State, troops in a separate operation, stormed Munhaye Forest a known hideout of the notorious bandit leader Kachalla Alti following intelligence report that the notorious bandit leader has held some captives hostage.

The mission led to the successful rescue of 62 kidnapped victims who are now in safe custody. Efforts are ongoing to reunite the freed hostages with their familiies.

These operations underscore the relentless efforts of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and its partners to dismantle terrorist networks, restore security, and protect lives in the region.