Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, have repelled an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province fighters in Borno State, killing 38 terrorists and recovering weapons.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the troops engaged the attackers at a forward operating base in Mandaragirau using coordinated ambushes and a strong offensive-defensive strategy, forcing the insurgents into a disorderly retreat.

The Air Component provided close air support and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, enhancing precision strikes during the operation. Follow-up actions along the terrorists’ escape routes inflicted further casualties.

The military said eight bodies were recovered at the scene, while intelligence from local sources indicated that more than 30 additional bodies and weapons were found along the Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis extending into the Timbuktu Triangle.

Recovered items included seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, four RPG bombs, and assorted ammunition. Troops recorded no fatalities, although one MRAP vehicle was hit by rocket-propelled grenade fire, with injured personnel receiving immediate medical attention.

The army noted that the operation has boosted morale among local communities and reinforced ongoing efforts to deny insurgents freedom of movement. Further clearance operations are ongoing to consolidate gains and recover more equipment.