Nigerian Troops Repel Ambush, Recover N37 Million in Terrorist Financing Crackdown

Troops of the Nigerian military Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have repelled a terrorist ambush along a known crossing route in the North East, recovering logistics supplies and N37 million in cash allegedly linked to terrorist financing.

In a press release issued on Monday, the military said troops sustained the operational momentum generated from recent defensive engagements in Pulka and Madara-Girau, transitioning into deliberate logistics strangulation operations aimed at crippling terrorist sustainment networks across the theatre.

According to the statement, troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with Vigilante Forces, were positioned along a crossing route frequently used by ISWAP elements transiting from the Cameroon axis into Nigeria when they came under attack.

The release noted that the terrorists, unaware of the troops’ concealed tactical deployment, ran into effective enfilade fire and were forced to withdraw in disarray. Military authorities said the failed ambush attempt ended with the insurgents retreating after encountering superior firepower.

Following the encounter, troops exploited the contact area and recovered a sizeable cache of critical logistics supplies assessed to be intended for terrorist resupply operations. The military said the interception significantly disrupts the terrorists’ sustainment capacity and operational reach within the area, adding that troops remain in firm control and are conducting further exploitation operations.

In a related development, troops at the Forward Operating Base Chabbal Checkpoint intercepted a suspicious vehicle conveying five occupants. A thorough search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of approximately N37 million carefully concealed in bags, alongside multiple mobile phones suspected to be linked to terrorist financing and coordination activities.

The military described the interception as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle financial conduits suspected to support terrorist logistics and operational activities within the theatre. It added that the coordinated operations reflect OPHK’s proactive strategy of tightening the noose on terrorist supply chains by simultaneously targeting physical movement corridors and financial enablers.

According to the release, the sustained pressure across key transit routes and support networks reflects a deliberate approach to weaken terrorist elements from within and limit their capacity to regenerate combat power.

The Military High Command commended the vigilance, professionalism, and resilience of the troops and collaborating security agencies, noting that their morale and fighting efficiency remain high.

It reiterated that Operation Hadin Kai remains resolute in its mandate to frustrate terrorist ambitions and restore enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region.