Operation HADIN KAI Neutralise ISWAP Fighters in Precision Airstrike in Timbuktu Triangle
By Zagazola Makama
Nigerian military forces under Operation HADIN KAI have neutralised eight suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during a precision airstrike in the Timbuktu Triangle of Borno State.
The operation, followed credible intelligence indicating the presence of terrorists at Thethangala, within the Timbuktu Triangle.
According to intelligence obtained by Zagazola Makama, the operation was conducted at about 9:56 p.m. on Aug. 18, 2026, after a Guardian aircraft established the target overhead.
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The sources said the aircraft sighted eight terrorists converged and lying in wait, apparently preparing to launch an attack on Nigerian troops deployed in the area.
It said the identified terrorists were subsequently engaged in a precision strike.
“Battle Damage Assessment shows all the terrorists neutralised, with no further movement observed after the strike,” the report stated. The location was considered as a significant operational zone for ISWAP activities.
The military high command said the general security situation remained calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remained satisfactory.
Operation HADIN KAI has intensified coordinated ground and air operations against terrorist formations and logistics networks across the North-East, particularly in areas where insurgents continue to attempt regrouping and attacks on military positions.