Troops of Operation Hadin Kai deployed to Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State have repelled a high-profile attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), neutralising four top leaders of the terror group, including two foreign Arab fighters, a member of its governing Shura Council, a senior commander, and several foot soldiers. ​
The confrontation took place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, when armed ISWAP insurgents launched an assault on military positions in Kukawa. Ground forces, coordinated alongside air support from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, swiftly counter-attacked with superior firepower to repel the assault and inflict heavy casualties. ​
Confirming the operation in a statement from Maiduguri, Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, revealed details of the high-ranking insurgent casualties. Among those killed were Abu Hajara, a prominent member of ISWAP’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a senior commander closely associated with Ba Shuwa, the overall Wali of ISWAP.
Two foreign Arab mercenary fighters aiding the command structure were also killed alongside multiple rank-and-file foot soldiers during the firefight. ​Following the tactical engagement, troops swept the battlefield to clear remaining threats and recovered cache of arms, ammunition, and specialised communication equipment abandoned by fleeing terrorists.
Captain Goni noted that this victory follows a major joint military action in Buni Yadi three days prior, where troops neutralised 55 insurgents, including senior commanders Ali Mandara (also known as Munzir), Habu Ikkima, Nakif Yana Faruk, and Commander Gogore. ​Captain Goni emphasized that the successful defense demonstrates the high combat readiness and tactical vigilance of the armed forces.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and executing targeted operations until terrorist hideouts across the North East and Lake Chad region are completely dismantled.
