Nigerian Air Force jets under Operation Hadin Kai have eliminated more than 50 suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in precision strikes, targeting their escape routes following a failed attempt to overrun artillery positions in Ngoshe, Gwoza Local Government Area.
The coordinated insurgent attack occurred around 7:30 pm on March 3, with fighters launching a surprise assault on military artillery sites in the community, located about 12 kilometres from Pulka and 31 kilometres from Gwoza town.
According to security sources cited by intelligence platform Zagazola Makama, troops mounted an effective ground defence but executed a tactical withdrawal under heavy fire to protect personnel and equipment while awaiting reinforcements.
“The insurgents tried to seize the artillery positions through a surprise assault. Troops on the ground responded effectively but carried out a tactical withdrawal under intense fire to safeguard personnel and equipment while reinforcements were being mobilised,” an officer explained.
The attackers adopted a hit-and-withdraw strategy, fleeing the scene before full reinforcement could seal the area. Surveillance aircraft quickly tracked the retreating fighters along known escape corridors in the volatile Ngoshe–Pulka axis.
“Upon receiving real-time intelligence from ground forces, air assets were deployed to engage the terrorists along their escape routes. The fighters were observed moving in clusters at two separate locations. Precision strikes were carried out on confirmed target clusters and movement trails. Battle Damage Assessment indicates that more than 50 terrorists were neutralised in two separate strike runs,” the officer stated.
The air-ground synergy disrupted the insurgents’ logistics and mobility in the corridor, preventing their retreat into forested hideouts near cross-border zones.
“The strikes also disrupted their logistics and mobility capabilities within the Ngoshe–Pulka corridor,” he added.
Clearance operations and area domination efforts remain underway to forestall any regrouping. The Ngoshe–Gwoza corridor has long been a hotspot for remnant Boko Haram and ISWAP elements exploiting rugged terrain and proximity to international borders.
“Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to sustaining offensive pressure. The message is clear: any attempt to attack our positions will be met with overwhelming and coordinated firepower,” the officer affirmed.
Military authorities reiterated their dedication to safeguarding civilians in Gwoza and nearby communities, supporting resettlement initiatives, and building on counter-insurgency gains in Borno State amid persistent threats from jihadist factions. No civilian or troop casualties were reported from the initial attack or subsequent strikes.
