Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have neutralised a senior Boko Haram leader, Abu Khalid, identified as the group’s second-in-command, along with 10 other fighters in Sambisa Forest, Borno State.
The operation took place around 11:00 p.m. on Saturday in the Komala general area of Konduga Local Government Area during a night offensive, the Joint Task Force announced on Sunday.
In a statement, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, Media Information Officer of the JTF North East, said the operation was a major success and led to the recovery of weapons and other materials.
“Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded a significant operational achievement with the neutralisation of Abu Khalid, the second-in-command of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest, alongside 10 other terrorists,” he said.
Uba noted that the incident occurred just a day after troops killed another notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, in the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle.
“Troops of Sector 1, working with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force on Operation Desert Sanity, engaged the terrorists in the Komala general area. Abu Khalid was a key figure, responsible for coordinating operations and logistics within the Sambisa axis,” Uba explained.
He added that the troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, magazines, several bicycles, assorted logistics, food items, and large quantities of medical consumables.
“No casualties were recorded among our personnel during the operation. Troops’ morale remains high as clearance operations continue across Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle, and other known hideouts of Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North East,” Uba said.
The military stressed its commitment to sustaining operations until all terrorist elements are neutralised and lasting peace and stability are restored in the region.
“The Military High Command commends the troops for their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism and urges them to maintain the operational tempo,” the statement concluded.
Last week, the JTF reported that three terrorists were also neutralised in an ambush between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities in Borno, further highlighting the ongoing military efforts to dismantle insurgent networks in the state.
