Troops kill ISWAP commander, over 20 terrorists in failed attack on Yobe community

By Ndahi Marama, Damaturu

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) have killed at least 20 members of Boko Haram/ISWAP, including a senior commander identified as Abu Yusu, the Munzir of Dursula, during a series of coordinated attacks on Goniri community in Gujba Local Government Area, Yobe State.

The attacks, which began on the night of Monday, 9 March 2026, and continued into the early hours of Tuesday, 10 March 2026, targeted military positions under Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK). Some troops sustained injuries during the encounter but were promptly evacuated and are currently in stable condition.

This was confirmed in a statement by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of OPHK. He said troops successfully foiled the terrorists’ coordinated efforts, which involved advances from Goniri village and the Ngamdu junction axis in an apparent attempt to encircle military positions.

“The vigilant troops responded swiftly with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvres, coordinating their defence while reinforcements and air support were deployed,” Lt. Col. Uba stated. “The terrorists were overwhelmed and forced to retreat in disarray, suffering heavy casualties, including a senior commander.”

Following the clash, troops recovered several bodies, weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other equipment abandoned by the retreating terrorists. Follow-up operations in the Timbuktu Triangle, specifically around Gwaigomari, led to the discovery of additional terrorist casualties.

Lt. Col. Uba emphasized that the area remains firmly under military control and that ground and air forces continue aggressive follow-up operations in surrounding communities to locate any surviving terrorists.

He added, “Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute and committed to the complete defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and security across the North-East. The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and resilience while urging them to sustain the operational tempo.”

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