In a series of decisive counter-terrorism operations in Borno State, troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have successfully neutralized nine Boko Haram terrorists and recovered approximately N5 million in ransom money. The operations, conducted in the Magumeri and Gajiram general areas, also led to the rescue of two kidnapped victims and the seizure of various items, including weapons and vehicles. These efforts underscore the Nigerian military’s commitment to combating insurgency in the North East and restoring peace to affected communities.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, provided details of the operations in a statement released on October 11, 2025. According to the statement, the operations were executed on October 10, 2025, following credible intelligence about the movement of Boko Haram terrorists in the Goni Dunari area of Magumeri Local Government Area (LGA) in Borno State. The intelligence indicated that the terrorists, traveling in two vehicles and accompanied by 24 foot fighters, were engaged in destructive activities, including setting houses ablaze and terrorizing local residents.
Acting swiftly on this information, OPHK troops launched an aggressive fighting patrol to intercept the terrorists. As the troops advanced toward the target location, the terrorists attempted to flee toward Damjiyakiri village. The vehicle-borne fighters dispersed to an unknown location, while the foot fighters were pursued over a distance of approximately 92 kilometers. After a grueling four-hour tactical pursuit, the troops made contact with the fleeing terrorists and launched a frontal attack. The engagement was intense, with the troops delivering a heavy barrage of fire that neutralized five terrorists. The remaining 19 terrorists scattered in disarray, with some sustaining injuries, as evidenced by blood trails observed at the scene.
The operation in Magumeri yielded significant recoveries, including one AK-47 rifle (registration number 06798), five magazines (three empty and two loaded), 31 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, one Itel mobile phone, and one dagger. Notably, the operation was conducted without any casualties or equipment losses on the part of the OPHK troops, highlighting their tactical proficiency and operational effectiveness.
In a parallel operation along the Gajiram-Bolori-Mile 40-Gajiganna axis, OPHK troops mounted on motorcycles engaged another group of Boko Haram fighters near Zundur village. During the ensuing firefight, four additional terrorists were neutralized, while others fled into the surrounding bush. The troops successfully rescued two hostages, identified as Mr. Modu Kinnami, aged 55, and Mr. Bukar, aged 57, both residents of Guzamala. The rescue operation also led to the recovery of a sack containing N750,000 in cash.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the Boko Haram fighters had demanded a ransom of N2 million and two new Tecno button phones for the release of the captives’ brother, who remained in their custody. The troops’ intervention disrupted the terrorists’ plans and secured the safe release of the hostages. In addition to the rescued individuals and the cash, the troops recovered a blue pickup vehicle (registration number GUB 327 XA), two new Tecno button phones, a 30-liter jerrycan of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and an additional sum of N4,355,000. The total amount of money recovered from both operations amounted to approximately N5 million, a significant blow to the terrorists’ financial operations.
These operations are part of OPHK’s ongoing efforts to maintain pressure on Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in the North East, denying them freedom of movement and disrupting their ability to carry out attacks or extort communities. The statement from Lieutenant Colonel Uba emphasized that further operations are underway across multiple fronts to sustain this momentum and ensure the safety of residents in the region.
The success of these operations highlights the Nigerian military’s resolve to combat insurgency and restore normalcy to Borno State and other affected areas. By neutralizing terrorists, rescuing hostages, and recovering ransom funds and weapons, the troops have dealt a significant setback to Boko Haram’s operations. The recovery of such a substantial amount of ransom money also underscores the terrorists’ reliance on kidnapping as a means of funding their activities, and the military’s success in disrupting this revenue stream weakens their operational capacity.
The rescued hostages, Mr. Kinnami and Mr. Bukar, are likely to receive support to reunite with their families and recover from their ordeal. Their rescue serves as a beacon of hope for other captives and their families, demonstrating the military’s commitment to protecting civilians and dismantling terrorist networks. The absence of casualties among the troops further bolsters morale and reinforces confidence in their ability to confront the insurgency effectively.
As Operation Hadin Kai continues its counter-terrorism efforts, the Nigerian military remains focused on sustaining pressure on Boko Haram and other terrorist groups. The operations in Magumeri and Gajiram are a testament to the troops’ bravery, strategic planning, and dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians. The recovered items, including weapons, vehicles, and cash, will likely provide valuable intelligence to further disrupt terrorist activities in the region.
The Nigerian government and military leadership have repeatedly affirmed their commitment to eradicating insurgency in the North East. These recent successes in Borno State are a step toward achieving that goal, but the fight is far from over. Continued collaboration between the military, local communities, and other stakeholders will be crucial in sustaining these gains and ensuring lasting peace in the region. For now, the neutralization of nine terrorists and the recovery of N5 million in ransom money stand as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against terrorism in Nigeria.
