Operation Hadin Kai Repels Kukareta Attack, Neutralizes 24 Terrorists in Major Offensive

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled a coordinated terrorist attack on Kukareta community in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State, delivering a significant blow to insurgent forces in the region.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of April 23, 2026, began shortly after midnight and lasted for several hours. According to military authorities, the assailants launched a determined assault on the community, but were met with a swift and well-coordinated response from troops under Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force in the North East.

In a statement released by Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the Theatre Command, the troops executed what was described as a deliberate offensive-defensive operation. This strategy effectively contained the attack and forced the terrorists into a chaotic retreat.

During the intense exchange, troops neutralized 24 terrorists, marking one of the most decisive counter-offensives in recent months. Following the confrontation, security forces carried out exploitation operations across the battlefield, leading to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition.

Among the items recovered were 18 AK-47 rifles, multiple General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, mortar tubes, hand grenades, and large quantities of ammunition. The scale of the recovered arsenal highlights the level of threat posed by the attackers and underscores the significance of the military’s response.

Despite the success, the operation was not without casualties on the side of the troops. Two soldiers were wounded during the engagement but have since been stabilized. Additionally, one armoured vehicle sustained damage after its tyres were blown out during the battle, though all personnel involved remained safe.

Military authorities say follow-up operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and recover additional weapons along their escape routes. Blood trails and abandoned medical supplies found in the area suggest that several of the attackers escaped with serious injuries.

The successful defense of Kukareta reinforces ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to restore stability in the North East. It also demonstrates the continued resolve of troops to counter insurgency and protect vulnerable communities from terrorist threats.