Troops Neutralise 16 ISWAP Fighters in Lake Chad Strikes

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have killed 16 suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during coordinated air and artillery strikes on three terrorist hideouts in the Tunbunma area of South Lake Chad.

According to the Joint Task Force, the operation was carried out between 1 am and 2 am on October 26, 2026, following intelligence reports on the presence of key ISWAP leaders and fighters.

“Battle Damage Assessment indicates that 16 ISWAP fighters were neutralised across the targeted locations,” the statement said.

Among those reportedly killed were Abu Zubiru, an Arab national, and his associates Baana Nglewa and Jindullah Sadiq. Abu Saleem, identified as the Wali of Tunbunma, was said to have sustained severe injuries along with seven others.

The military emphasised that the strikes were part of sustained offensives against terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin, reaffirming its commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in the region.

“Operation Hadin Kai reaffirms that there is no hiding place for terrorists and remains committed to conducting intelligence-led operations against terrorist elements in the North East,” the statement added.

Authorities also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.