Nigerian troops conducted a series of successful counter-terrorism operations in Borno state during late January 2026, capturing over 35 Boko Haram and ISWAP militants, including key commanders and logistics operatives, military sources report. The sweeps targeted hideouts amid ongoing efforts to dismantle networks responsible for 35,000+ deaths since 2009.
On January 23, 12 ISWAP commanders were arrested in the Mandara Mountains after intelligence-led raids uncovered arms caches and planning documents. Four days later, January 27 in Gujba LGA, 15 suspects were nabbed with improvised explosives and motorcycles used for bombings. On February 2, 8 ISWAP fighters were captured at Pulka border smuggling weapons from Cameroon, disrupting supply lines to Sambisa Forest.
These arrests follow the January 31 killing of deputy commander Abu Khalid, signaling intensified pressure. Recovered items included AK-47s, IED components, and radios coordinating island attacks that killed dozens recently. Army spokesperson Major General Ibrahim Attahiru hailed the ops as "decisive blows," crediting U.S./Chadian intel. ISWAP vowed revenge via unverified messages, while locals praise reduced kidnappings. Operations continue into February rainy season prep.
