Military Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Logistics Hubs, Kill 18 in Borno

Nigerian military forces carried out an air interdiction operation, dubbed Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), in collaboration with ground troops in Sector 1 OPHK, as part of efforts to dismantle terrorist networks. The mission, carried out in early hours on September 11, 2026, resulted in the destruction of identified terrorist strongholds in Tumbunma Baba, located in the Tumbuns region of Borno State, resulting in the deaths of over 18 suspected terrorist operatives.

The operation was predicated on intelligence gathered over a span of weeks, which identified the location as a hub for terrorist activities due to its role as a convergence point for meetings and logistics. The intelligence was further corroborated by surveillance and reconnaissance operations, which conclusively identified several terrorist structures in the area.

The targeted area was being utilized by terrorists as a gathering point and support base. The operation involved deploying precision munitions via air assets, while ground troops secured and neutralized potential escape routes. This resulted in the destruction of the targeted structures and neutralization of over 18 terrorist operatives.

According to Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer of Joint Task Force North-east, the operation dealt a substantial blow to terrorist activities in the area, effectively disrupting their logistics and curtailing their ability to employ the enclave as a gathering and support base. Post-strike assessments revealed a success rate of approximately 85 percent, underlining the efficacy of intelligence-led operations and the synergy between air assets and ground troops.

Goni highlighted the importance of continued vigilance and information sharing from the public to support ongoing efforts in identifying and disrupting terrorist activities across the North-East Theatre, urging members of the public to provide credible and timely information to security forces.