Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly neutralised four senior leaders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), including two Arab fighters, a commander and several other members of the group during an operation in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Nigerian Army said the operation took place on October 31, 2026, following an attack by ISWAP fighters on military positions in the area.

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In a statement issued on Sunday, the Acting Military Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the operation involved a coordinated deployment of ground troops and air assets from the Air Component.

According to the statement, the engagement dealt a significant blow to the leadership and operational capacity of the terrorist group.

The military identified two of the neutralised figures as Abu Hajara, described as a prominent member of ISWAP’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a senior commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, the group’s overall Wali.

The other two were described as high-ranking Arab fighters.

Goni said troops recovered several weapons, ammunition and communication devices following the operation.

He added that the engagement demonstrated the combat readiness and operational capabilities of troops involved in ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on terrorist groups across the North-East.

The Kukawa attack reportedly occurred barely three days after another military engagement in Buni Yadi, where the Army said 55 terrorists were neutralised.

Among those reportedly killed in the Buni Yadi operation were key ISWAP commanders identified as Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir, Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk and Commander Gogore.

The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and continuing military operations against terrorist groups in the region.