Troops Repel Midnight Terror Attack in Yobe, Kill 24 Insurgents, Seize Heavy Weapons
By Passman Akpos
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have foiled a coordinated terrorist attack on Kukareta in Yobe State, killing at least 24 insurgents and recovering a large cache of weapons in a fierce overnight battle.
The operation, carried out by the Joint Task Force (North East) under Sector 2, took place in the early hours of Thursday, April 23, 2026. According to military authorities, the attack began shortly after midnight and lasted until about 3:00 a.m., as terrorists attempted to overrun the Kukareta location.
However, troops responded swiftly with what officials described as a “deliberate offensive-defensive action,” successfully containing the assault and forcing the attackers into a chaotic retreat.
In the aftermath of the clash, troops reportedly neutralised 24 terrorists, while ongoing exploitation efforts continue to uncover more casualties along escape routes marked by blood trails and abandoned medical supplies.
Security forces also recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition from the scene, including 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), two PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, three Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) launchers, two mortar tubes, and several grenades. Additional items include multiple magazines and large quantities of 7.62mm ammunition.
Despite the success, two soldiers were wounded in action and have since been stabilised. The military also confirmed that one reinforcing armoured tank was damaged during the engagement, with all its tyres blown out.
Military spokesperson Sani Uba said exploitation operations are ongoing to recover more weapons and bodies, as troops continue to pursue fleeing insurgents.
He emphasized that the operation demonstrates the resilience and combat readiness of troops in the North East, adding that sustained offensives will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement and ultimately dismantle their networks across the region.
The latest victory adds to ongoing efforts by Nigerian forces to degrade insurgent capabilities and restore stability in the conflict-affected areas of the North East.
