Troops repel ISWAP attack, recover propaganda camcorder, identify Palestinian terrorist trainer, Moroccan doctor in Borno

Troops of the 19 Brigade, Sector 3 of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, have repelled an attempted infiltration by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters into Cross Kauwa community in Kukawa Local Government Area.

According to the military, the insurgents suffered heavy casualties and retreated after encountering intense resistance from the troops.

The Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the attack occurred at about 10:20 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, when the insurgents allegedly attempted to infiltrate the troops’ position under the cover of darkness.

He said vigilant soldiers detected the movement early and responded with coordinated firepower, forcing the attackers to abandon the operation.

According to Goni, preliminary intelligence suggests the insurgents intended to loot cholera medical supplies, consistent with reports indicating a cholera outbreak within terrorist enclaves.

He added that earlier intelligence also indicated some insurgents infected with the disease had allegedly been executed by the group.

During the operation, troops recovered a Sony camcorder after neutralising a suspected terrorist cameraman.

The military said the device contained operational footage and propaganda materials.

Preliminary forensic analysis reportedly indicated that the failed operation was coordinated by four senior ISWAP commanders with the alleged involvement of three foreign terrorist facilitators.

The statement identified the foreign operatives as a Palestinian known as Abu Ishaq, described as an ISWAP trainer; a Moroccan identified as Abu Thaiba, said to be a medical doctor within the group; and another unidentified Arab operative.

According to the military, the findings reinforce intelligence assessments that ISWAP continues to receive foreign support, specialised expertise, and transnational terrorist assistance.

Troops also recovered several rounds of PKT and 7.62mm Special ammunition, terrorist uniforms, and other items during follow-up exploitation operations.

The military further disclosed that satellite imagery and human intelligence suggested the insurgents evacuated some of those killed during the encounter, while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.

Two soldiers sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and were evacuated by air for advanced medical treatment. They are reported to be in stable condition.

Operation HADIN KAI said the failed attack represents another setback for ISWAP as troops continue offensive operations against terrorist groups across the North-East.

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