Troops Kill Four ISWAP Leaders, Arab Fighters in Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have killed four high-ranking Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) members, including two Arab fighters, a Shura Council member and a prominent commander, during a counter-terrorism operation in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Nigerian Army said the terrorists were neutralised on October 31, 2026, following a major ISWAP attack on troops’ positions in the area.

The acting Military Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Mohammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the operation involved coordinated ground and air assaults.

According to the statement, the operation dealt a significant blow to the leadership and operational capacity of the terror group.

The Army identified the neutralised ISWAP leaders as Abu Hajara, a high-profile member of the group’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a prominent commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, the group’s overall Wali.

Two other high-ranking Arab fighters were also killed during the engagement.

Goni said troops recovered several weapons, ammunition and communication devices following the operation.

“The successful engagement further demonstrates the combat readiness, vigilance and superior firepower of Operation Hadin Kai troops in sustaining pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre,” he stated.

The latest operation came barely three days after troops reportedly neutralised 55 terrorists during an attack in Buni Yadi, including key commanders Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir, Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk and Commander Gogore.

The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and sustaining military operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and destroying their camps across the region.

It also vowed to continue the offensive until the complete elimination of terrorist elements in the Northeast.