By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded a major operational breakthrough with the capture and destruction of notorious ISWAP terrorists’ detention facilities deep within the forested Timbuktu Triangle in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The successful operation, carried out over the past two weeks, marks a significant advance into areas previously considered beyond the reach of security forces and underscores the growing effectiveness and sustainability of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North East.
The offensive was executed under Operation DESERT SANITY V, following sustained pressure and intelligence-led manoeuvres that forced terrorist elements to abandon critical facilities located deep within their strongholds. The exposure and destruction of the sites clearly demonstrate that OPHK troops have penetrated ISWAP’s inner sanctuaries, denying the group both physical space and psychological advantage.
From 21 January 2026 to date, troops uncovered and destroyed three major terrorists’ detention facilities concealed within the Timbuktu Triangle forest, which stretches across parts of Borno and Yobe states. Preliminary assessments revealed that the facilities had the capacity to hold up to 300 detainees, highlighting their strategic importance to ISWAP’s operational and coercive framework.
Further findings showed that sustained offensive actions by troops directly led to the escape of over 70 captives previously held by the terrorists. Many of the escapees later resurfaced in villages including Goniri, Buratai and Mandaragirau, among others.
One of the escapees, Malam Jidda Ba Jidda, a native of Kufi village near Buratai in Biu Local Government Area, disclosed that he escaped during a gun duel between ISWAP fighters and advancing troops in the Timbuktu Triangle. He revealed that he was abducted by the terrorists on 22 December 2025.
During the series of encounters in the area, ISWAP suffered heavy 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 a thorough clearance of the area, the three detention facilities were deliberately demolished, permanently denying ISWAP the ability to reuse or reoccupy the sites. The operation was executed successfully without incident, reflecting the resilience, professionalism, discipline and combat effectiveness of OPHK troops.
Beyond a tactical success, the destruction of the detention camps significantly degrades ISWAP’s internal enforcement mechanisms, disrupts its ability to detain civilians and collect ransom, and further restricts its freedom of action. The escape of a large number of detainees also deprives the terrorists of a key funding tool while potentially providing valuable intelligence to support ongoing operations.
While the overall security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory. The Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, denying them safe havens, and restoring lasting peace and security across the North East.
Signed:
Sani Uba
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force
North East Operation HADIN KAI
3 February 2026
