December 14, (THEWILL) — Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, Borno State, killing several insurgents and destroying two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).
The attack, which commenced late on Thursday, December 12, 2025, and spilled into the early hours of Friday, December 13, was foiled through a combination of effective ground defence and timely air support, military authorities said.
According to a statement signed on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the terrorists attempted to breach the base using two VBIEDs. However, vigilant troops detected the devices early and neutralised them before they could cause significant damage or penetrate the facility.
“Both VBIEDs were destroyed by defensive fire from the troops”, the statement said, adding that CCTV footage and field reports confirmed that several terrorists were killed, while many others sustained serious injuries during the failed assault.
Following the repelled attack, troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out a detailed exploitation of the surrounding area.
The operation led to the recovery of assorted weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned by the fleeing terrorists. Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication equipment, combat gear, and medical supplies, pointing to sustained terrorist activities in the area.
The military noted that while the destroyed VBIEDs caused damage to two sections of the road, there was no breach of the FOB, underscoring the preparedness and resilience of the troops.
Troops have since intensified patrols around Mairari and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks and reassure residents of the military’s continued presence.
“The failed attack at Mairari highlights the operational readiness, vigilance, and professionalism of our troops”, Lieutenant Colonel Uba said, reiterating the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to defeat terrorist groups, protect civilians, and restore lasting peace and stability in Nigeria’s North East.
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