Nigerian Army destroys ISWAP detention camps in Yobe, kills 32 terrorists, and frees over 70 hostages in a major counterterrorism operation

Nigerian Army troops have destroyed major detention facilities of the terrorist group ISWAP in the Timbuktu Triangle forest and freed more than 70 hostages, the military said on Tuesday.

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The operation, conducted under Operation DESERT SANITY-V, also resulted in the deaths of at least 32 ISWAP fighters, including two Qaids and three Munzirs, with several others injured, according to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media and Information Officer of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI.

The offensive, which has been ongoing since January 21, targeted key ISWAP facilities in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State that were previously considered out of reach of security forces. Preliminary findings suggest the destroyed camps could hold up to 300 detainees.

“The successful operation has degraded ISWAP’s ability to detain civilians, collect ransom, and maintain control over local communities, while further shrinking the group’s operational space,” Lt. Col. Uba said.

Many of the escapees later resurfaced in communities including Goniri, Buratai, and Mandaragirau. One escapee, Malam Jidda Ba Jidda, described fleeing during a gun battle between ISWAP fighters and advancing troops.

The Army deliberately destroyed the facilities after clearing the area to prevent their reuse, highlighting the professionalism and combat effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI forces.

Also read: At least four soldiers killed in ISWAP attack on military base in Borno State

“The military remains committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace in the North East,” the statement added.