Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have intercepted a logistics convoy linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province in Borno State, killing 21 fighters during the operation.
The operation took place in Sojiri and Kayamla communities following intelligence reports that a large group of insurgents had gathered in the area. Security sources said the group was planning attacks on nearby communities while moving supplies to their camps.
According to the Army, soldiers acted on the information and moved in with support from members of the Civilian Joint Task Force and local vigilantes. Contact with the insurgents was made around midday as the convoy advanced.
During the confrontation, troops engaged the fighters in a heavy gun battle. The insurgents attempted to flank the soldiers from behind, but the move was blocked by the troops, who maintained control of the area. After the clash, soldiers advanced further into the forest, where they confirmed that 21 insurgents had been killed. Others were believed to have escaped with injuries.
The Army said operations were still ongoing to confirm if more casualties were recorded and to recover additional items.
Items found at the scene included bicycles, food supplies, drugs, medical items, detergents, clothing materials, torchlights, bicycle tyres, weapons, and ammunition of different types.
Military authorities noted that the troops involved remained in high spirits and fully prepared for further operations. They added that the success of the mission showed the importance of timely intelligence and cooperation between the military and local security groups in weakening insurgent networks.
In a related development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai had earlier discovered an improvised explosive device planted along the Damboa–Komala road and arrested two suspected logistics suppliers in Kirawa, located in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Army’s Media Information Officer for the North East, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said these separate operations were carried out between Wednesday, December 17, and Friday, December 19, 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to cut off supplies to terrorist groups in the region.