Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have killed several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including a member of the group’s Shura Council, Abu Hajara, and a prominent commander, Abul Walid, during an encounter in Kukawa, Borno State.

Two other high-ranking Arab fighters were also killed in the engagement, which took place on October 31, 2026.

Abul Walid was identified as a close associate of Ba Shuwa, the overall Wali of ISWAP.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Captain Mohammed Goni.

According to the statement, troops deployed to Kukawa repelled a major ISWAP attack on their positions, with ground forces supported by air assets from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI.

The troops recovered several weapons, ammunition and communication devices following the engagement.

The military described the operation as a demonstration of the troops’ combat readiness, vigilance and superior firepower, adding that it reflected the sustained pressure being mounted on terrorist groups across the theatre.

The attack on the troops’ positions in Kukawa came barely three days after the assault on Buni Yadi, where 55 terrorists were neutralized, according to the military.

Those killed in the Buni Yadi operation included key commanders identified as Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir; Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk; and Commander Gogore.

The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting law-abiding residents and sustaining operations aimed at eliminating terrorist groups and destroying their camps across the region. (Channels TV)