Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have uncovered and destroyed three terrorists’ detention facilities in the Timbuktu Triangle, which stretches across Borno and Yobe states, leading to the escape of 70 captives and the killing of 32 insurgents.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Sanni explained that the breakthrough followed carefully coordinated operations that lasted for a two-week period.
The statement read, “Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), recorded a major operational breakthrough following carefully coordinated operations in the last two weeks, leading to the capture and destruction of a notorious ISWAP terrorists’ detention facility deep within the forested Timbuktu Triangle in Gujba Local Government Area.
“The development marks a significant advance into areas long considered beyond the reach of security forces and underscores the growing effectiveness and sustainability of ongoing counter-insurgency operations.”
He stated that the operation was conducted as part of Operation DESERT SANITY V, following sustained offensive pressure and intelligence-led manoeuvres that forced terrorist elements to abandon critical facilities deep within their strongholds.
“Their exposure and destruction clearly demonstrate that troops of OPHK have advanced well into the inner sanctuaries of ISWAP terrorists, denying the group both physical space and psychological advantage,” he said.
He also said, “From January 21, 2026, to date, troops uncovered and destroyed three major terrorists’ detention facilities concealed within the Timbuktu Triangle forest, which stretches across Borno and Yobe states.
“Preliminary assessments indicated that the facilities had the capacity to hold up to 300 detainees, highlighting their strategic importance to ISWAP terrorists’ operational and coercive framework,” he added.
He said further findings indicated that sustained offensive action by troops directly led to the escape of over 70 captives previously held by the terrorists.
“During the series of encounters in the Timbuktu Triangle, ISWAP suffered significant combat losses, with no fewer than 32 fighters neutralised, including two Qaids and three Munzirs, while several others sustained serious injuries during fierce engagements with troops.
“Following thorough clearance of the area, the three detention facilities were deliberately demolished, permanently denying ISWAP the ability to reuse or reoccupy the sites,” he noted.
The operation, he said, was conducted successfully and without incident, reflecting the resilience, professionalism, discipline and combat effectiveness of OPHK troops.
He added that the destruction of the detention camps marked more than a tactical victory.
“It degrades ISWAP’s internal enforcement mechanisms, disrupts the terrorists’ ability to detain and collect ransom from civilians, and further constricts their freedom of action. The escape of a large number of detainees not only deprives the terrorists of a key funding tool but also undermines their control over local populations, while potentially providing valuable intelligence and testimonies that can aid ongoing operations,” he stated.
He further stressed that while the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory.
“The Armed Forces remain committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, denying them safe havens, and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East,” he assured.