Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Operation HADIN KAI have foiled an attempted attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on a Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack occurred at about 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, when the insurgents launched a coordinated assault on the Forward Operating Base manned by troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion.
According to a statement by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Captain Mohammed Goni, troops detected the advancing terrorists through their early warning and surveillance systems.
A combat team was immediately deployed to intercept the attackers along one of their routes of advance, triggering a heavy exchange of fire.
The military said the troops successfully repelled the assault on that axis, while a second group of terrorists attempted to bypass the ambush and infiltrate the military base.
They were, however, met with superior firepower and equally forced to retreat.
The coordinated response reportedly sent the insurgents into disarray, prompting them to withdraw towards the Timbuktu Triangle, with troops launching a hot pursuit and exploiting the area and their withdrawal routes.
The operation resulted in the recovery of several weapons and combat items, including AK-47 rifles with loaded magazines, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, RPG bombs and chargers, as well as a video camera and other military equipment.
The military also said surveillance footage showed the fleeing terrorists dragging the bodies of some of their fallen colleagues towards the Timbuktu Triangle.
Importantly, the Theatre Command reported that there were no casualties among the Nigerian troops during the encounter.
The successful defence of the base, according to Operation HADIN KAI, demonstrates the troops’ preparedness, aggressive posture and ability to respond effectively to terrorist attacks.
The Theatre Command commended the leadership, courage and professionalism displayed by personnel of the 162 Amphibious Battalion, describing their response as a demonstration of tactical proficiency and combat effectiveness.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its determination to maintain pressure on terrorist groups, deny them freedom of action and support efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the North-East.