The Army said the operation also led to the escape of more than 70 captives. “From 21 January 2026 to date, troops uncovered and destroyed 3 major terrorist detention facilities concealed within the Timbuktu Triangle forest which stretches across Borno and Yobe states,” said Mr Uba. ‘32 ISWAP fighters killed’During the encounters, Mr Uba said ISWAP suffered heavy losses, with no fewer than 32 fighters killed, including two Qaids (senior commanders) and three Munzirs (unit leaders), while several others were wounded. Mr Uba said the destruction of the camps goes beyond a tactical victory, weakening ISWAP’s internal enforcement system, disrupting its detention and ransom networks, and further constricting its operational freedom. Mr Uba reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements, denying them safe havens and restoring lasting peace and security across the North-east.

Source: The Guardian February 04, 2026 07:40 UTC