Troops kill scores of terrorists in Borno airstrikes

Troops in northern Nigeria killed dozens of suspected terrorists in a series of airstrikes across Borno State during late July and early August 2026, according to a military press release issued this week. The attacks, carried out under Operation HADIN KAI, targeted known concentrations of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants, resulting in the deaths of approximately 46 fighters. The operations began between the night of 21 and the early morning of 22 August, following intelligence reports and confirmed surveillance data. According to the press statement released by the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East, Captain Mohammed Goni, the airstrikes were based on credible intelligence and surveillance missions that identified the movement and gathering of suspected terrorists. These operations aimed to dismantle the ability of these groups to regroup and conduct attacks in the region. One of the key targets was near the Aduwa axis in Monguno Local Government Area, where a large group of militants had assembled. After receiving proper authorization, a precision strike was launched, leading to the neutralization of 16 terrorists in two separate engagements. Further surveillance revealed another group of militants attempting to regroup away from the initial attack site. Another precision strike was executed, eliminating approximately 10 more individuals. In a separate operation in Buratai, located in Biu LGA, an air platform detected a gathering of suspected terrorists. Following continuous monitoring and approval, a strike was conducted, resulting in the elimination of another 10 militants. Goni emphasized that these operations highlight the increasing effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI's integrated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. He noted that despite efforts by terrorists to hide their movements or break into smaller units, these tactics have proven insufficient to avoid detection. The ongoing kinetic pressure on terrorist networks is supported by non-kinetic strategies such as community engagement, strategic communication, counter-messaging, and humanitarian coordination. These measures aim to encourage militants and their supporters to abandon violence and surrender. The military has called on the public to stay alert and provide timely and accurate information to security forces. Community involvement is crucial for early threat detection, safeguarding lives and property, and maintaining the progress made in the counter-terrorism campaign. Recent weeks have seen an increase in surrenders, reflecting the mounting pressure on terrorist networks and reinforcing the message that there is a viable alternative to continuing with violent activities. The operations are part of a broader strategy by Operation HADIN KAI to reduce the capabilities of terrorist organizations while enhancing security for communities in the northeast. The military continues to stress the importance of vigilance among civilians and collaboration with security agencies to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.