By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) under Operation Hadin Kai have foiled an attempted infiltration by suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Bitta, Borno State, dealing another setback to the insurgent group.
The failed attack occurred when the terrorists reportedly attempted to infiltrate troops’ positions in the area in what appeared to be a desperate effort to regain momentum after recent battlefield losses.
However, the vigilant troops had anticipated the move and strategically prepared an offensive–defensive response that disrupted the insurgents’ plan.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the terrorists advanced toward the troops’ location but were met with coordinated spoiling actions that effectively dismantled their assault formation.
The troops also manoeuvred tactically to block the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, forcing them into a disorganised retreat after encountering overwhelming resistance and superior firepower.
The statement noted that the insurgents suffered significant losses during the engagement as troops maintained control of the area.
Military authorities described the incident as the third major setback inflicted on the terrorists within 24 hours, following earlier failed attacks on troops’ positions in Banki and at Azir Bridge.
“These successive defeats highlight the sustained operational pressure being mounted by Operation Hadin Kai troops across the theatre of operations, which has significantly limited the terrorists’ freedom of action,” the statement said.
It further noted that the troops remain firmly in control of their locations and continue to dominate the operational environment through high morale, effective tactical coordination and sustained offensive operations.
The military high command commended the troops for their gallantry and resilience, urging them to maintain the current operational tempo in ongoing efforts to defeat insurgency in the North-East.
