Military Operation Neutralizes Senior ISWAP Commanders in Borno State
Joint Task Force troops have successfully repelled a major ISWAP assault in Kukawa, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking commanders, including a member of the group’s Shura Council.
Nigerian military forces operating under the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have reported a significant tactical success against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State. According to an official statement released by Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Media Information Officer, troops engaged and neutralized several high-ranking members of the insurgent group during a defensive operation in Kukawa on October 31, 2026.
Key Figures Neutralized
The military confirmed that the engagement resulted in the deaths of several prominent figures within the ISWAP hierarchy. Among those killed was Abu Hajara, a member of the group’s Shura Council—the primary decision-making body of the organization. Additionally, the military identified Abul Walid, a commander noted for his close association with Ba Shuwa, the overall Wali of ISWAP, as one of the casualties. The operation also claimed the lives of two other high-ranking Arab fighters associated with the group.
Details of the Engagement
The confrontation occurred when ISWAP fighters launched a major assault on military positions in Kukawa. The Joint Task Force successfully repelled the attack through a coordinated effort between ground forces and the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI. Following the firefight, troops secured the area and recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition, and various communication devices.
The military command characterized the outcome as a testament to the combat readiness and vigilance of the deployed units. Officials stated that the operation reflects the ongoing pressure being applied to terrorist organizations throughout the North East theatre of operations.
Context of Recent Military Activity
This engagement follows a period of heightened military activity in the region. According to the Theatre Command, this latest operation occurred only three days after a separate encounter in Buni Yadi. In that earlier engagement, the military reported the neutralization of 55 terrorists, including several key commanders such as Ali Mandara (also known as Munzir), Habu Ikkima, Nakif Yana Faruk, and a commander identified as Gogore.
Commitment to Security
The Theatre Command has reiterated its commitment to the protection of civilians and the continued degradation of insurgent capabilities. The military stated that it remains focused on sustaining operations aimed at dismantling terrorist camps and eliminating militant influence across the region.
While the military has provided these details regarding the casualties and the nature of the engagement, independent verification of the specific identities or the total number of casualties remains unavailable at this time.
Conclusion
The neutralization of senior ISWAP leadership in Kukawa marks another development in the long-standing conflict in North East Nigeria. By combining ground and air assets, the Joint Task Force continues to challenge the operational capacity of insurgent groups, emphasizing a strategy of sustained pressure to secure the region.
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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television
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