Military forces neutralize high-ranking ISWAP leader, eliminate more than 20 extremists in thwarted raid on Yobe village

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) have successfully neutralized at least 20 Boko Haram/ISWAP militants, including the high-ranking Abu Yusu, also known as the Munzir of Dursula, in a series of coordinated assaults on Goniri community in Gujba Local Government Area, Yobe State.

The offensive, which commenced on the evening of Monday, 9 March 2026, and persisted into the early hours of Tuesday, 10 March 2026, specifically targeted military strongholds under the purview of Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).

A number of troops suffered injuries during the confrontation but were swiftly evacuated and are now recuperating in stable condition, as confirmed by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of OPHK.

Lt. Col. Uba revealed that the military successfully thwarted the terrorists' coordinated efforts, which involved simultaneous advances from Goniri village and the Ngamdu junction axis in a bid to encircle military positions.

The military responded decisively with superior firepower and strategic manoeuvres, orchestrating their defence while reinforcements and air support were deployed, according to Lt. Col. Uba, who noted that the terrorists were overwhelmed and forced to retreat in disarray, suffering significant losses, including a senior commander.

In the aftermath of the clash, troops recovered several bodies, weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other equipment abandoned by the retreating terrorists.

Subsequent operations in the Timbuktu Triangle, particularly around Gwaigomari, yielded additional terrorist casualties, further underscoring the military's unyielding pursuit of the insurgents.

Lt. Col. Uba emphasized that the area remains firmly under military control, with ground and air forces continuing to conduct aggressive follow-up operations in surrounding communities to locate any surviving terrorists.

He reaffirmed that Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute and committed to the complete defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and security across the North-East.

The Military High Command commended the troops for their bravery and resilience, urging them to sustain the operational tempo, as stated by Lt. Col. Uba.