Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have discovered a mass grave containing 20 bodies of terrorists killed during clearance operations within the Timbuktu Triangle of the Sambisa Forest, indicating heavy losses suffered by insurgents in the area.

The discovery was disclosed by the spokesman of OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, who said it exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits insurgents’ propaganda narratives.

Uba explained that the bodies were buried by terrorist elements following intense military pressure.

He said that in the latest phase of operations, troops successfully cleared and dominated key terrorist locations across the Timbuktu Triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas.

According to him, troops sustained their advance into the Timbuktu Triangle, recording significant operational gains and further degrading terrorist networks in the area.

Uba noted that during the operations, troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorist elements and engaged them with heavy firepower, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists.

“On January 20, 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area approximately six kilometres north of Chilaria, troops encountered two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).

“Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised. The second VBIED, however, breached the defensive position, affecting some logistics platforms. In the course of this attack, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price, while others sustained injuries,” he said.

He added that the wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.

Uba said that throughout the evacuation, Nigerian Air Force platforms from the Air Component, in synergy with other Nigerian Army air platforms, provided continuous overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces, while more terrorists were neutralised in the process.

“Across the Theatre, the security situation remains generally stable. Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high, and operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements.

“Troops of OPHK remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East,” he said.