The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of 22 soldiers and over 70 insurgents during an ongoing military offensive in the Timbuktu Triangle, a notorious terrorist hub in Borno State.
The operation, led by troops under Operation Hadin Kai, began on January 16, 2025, and focuses on dismantling terrorist strongholds in the area.
In a statement released on Sunday, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the operation has involved multiple engagements with insurgents.
Among those killed were three key terrorist leaders: Talha, the Special Forces Commander; Mallam Umar, the Operations Commander; and Abu Yazeed, the Brigade Commander.
Maj. Gen. Buba said, “Troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast conducted a clearance mission targeting the notorious terrorist enclave known as the Timbuktu Triangle. This three-pronged operation, aimed at eliminating terrorist presence in the area, began on January 16, 2025, and is still ongoing.
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“During the clearance operation, troops encountered several terrorists, leading to the neutralization of over 70 insurgents, including three high-ranking commanders: Talha, Mallam Umar, and Abu Yazeed.”
