Troops Clear Terrorist Camps, Repel Drone Attacks In North East
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational successes in the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY, destroying several terrorist camps, recovering arms and logistics, and repelling coordinated attacks by insurgents in the Timbuktu Triangle.
On Sunday, 18 January 2026, troops advanced from their harbour area to conduct deliberate, intelligence-led operations across identified terrorist enclaves in Chilaria, Garin Faruk and Abirma. The operation was supported by the Air Component of OPHK, which provided persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) coverage throughout the axis. This air–ground synergy enabled real-time tracking of terrorist movements, deterred reinforcement, and enhanced the precision and effectiveness of ground operations.
During the clearance operations, troops recovered items of military and logistical significance, including Baofeng radios and mobile phones, five AK-47 magazines, several rounds of 7.62×39mm special ammunition and 7.62mm NATO belted ammunition, Boko Haram/ISWAP flags, links of 12.7×108mm ammunition, diesel-powered grinding machines, a large quantity of medical supplies, several bags of grains, a pick-up truck, underground logistics storage facilities, and a Petroleum, Oil and Lubricant (POL) dump. These recoveries further degraded the operational and sustainment capabilities of the terrorists.
At about midday, advancing troops came under armed drone attacks by the insurgents. Despite the attack, troops maintained momentum and continued the offensive. A second drone attack later in the evening was also decisively repelled, forcing the terrorists to withdraw and reaffirming troop dominance of the area.
Despite sustained engagements, troop morale remains high and fighting efficiency continues to be maintained. The general security situation in the area is assessed as calm but unpredictable, with troops remaining vigilant and on a high state of readiness.
The Military High Command has reaffirmed that operations will continue as troops remain resolute in their mission to eliminate terrorist threats, protect civilians, and restore lasting peace and stability to the North East.
