Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully repelled a large-scale night attack launched by suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Bitta, located in Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State.
The attempted infiltration occurred at approximately 10:25 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, with insurgents reportedly advancing from the Damboa axis, according to the Nigerian Army.
In a statement posted on the Army’s official X handle (formerly Twitter), the military disclosed that the terrorists briefly breached the outer defensive perimeter of the location but were quickly repelled after an intense exchange of gunfire.
“Several terrorists were neutralised during the encounter,” the Army stated. “Troops recovered AK-47 rifles and other arms and ammunition. No casualties were recorded among our personnel.”
Commanders Visit and Reorganisation Ordered
In a swift follow-up on Sunday, July 27, the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division, led a team of senior military officers to Bitta for an on-ground assessment of the situation.
The GOC ordered an immediate reorganisation and remobilisation of troops to strengthen defensive positions and ensure heightened operational vigilance in the area.
The Army affirmed that while the general security situation in Bitta and surrounding communities remains calm, it remains “unpredictable.” However, troops are maintaining high morale and combat readiness.
Background
Operation HADIN KAI is the Nigerian military’s flagship counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operation in the North-East region, targeting Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other armed groups destabilising the area.
The latest repelled attack underscores the continued threat posed by insurgent groups, as well as the resilience and preparedness of Nigerian forces in securing volatile territories.
