Army Tells True Account Of Terrorist Attack On Troops In Timbuktu Triangle

The Nigerian Army has provided a detailed account of its recent offensive against terrorists in the North East, countering misinformation circulating in some media outlets.

The operation, codenamed DESERT SANITY IV, was launched on January 16, 2025, under Operation HADIN KAI as part of ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism in the region.

During the operation, troops successfully dislodged terrorists from strongholds in Jemyeri, Abulam, Agum, and Digamari, dealing a significant blow to their operations. A decisive strike on an ISWAP training camp at Garin Baban Alhassan resulted in the destruction of the camp and the neutralization of 18 terrorists, including three high-profile commanders. Among them were Talha, the ISWAP women leader; Mallam Umar, the RPG trainer; and Abu Yazeed, the ISWAP Brigade Commander for the Timbuktu Triangle.

The operation gained momentum on January 22, when troops from the 199 Special Forces Battalion, along with Combat Teams 6 and 8, regrouped at Gardiri for the final assault on the terrorists. In precursor operations, camps in Burbur, Lamisuri, Kassachia, and Buk were cleared, leaving the terrorists in disarray and fleeing for survival.

However, in a desperate bid to retaliate, the terrorists launched a cowardly attack on January 24, ramming a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) into the troops’ harbor position at Gardiri. The attack claimed the lives of a Commanding Officer, two officers, and several soldiers, while 20 others sustained injuries. Despite this tragic incident, the troops neutralized over 60 terrorists during the week-long operation and recovered a substantial cache of weapons, including 14 AK-47 rifles, six RPG tubes, 18 motorcycles, and 24 AK-47 magazines.

In a statement released on January 26, the Nigerian Army clarified that contrary to rumors, there was no terrorist activity in Malam Fatori resulting in troop casualties, as falsely reported by some media outlets. The only recorded incident occurred in the Timbuktu Triangle, within Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State. The Army described the media reports as “fake, baseless, and the work of mischief makers,” urging the public to disregard such misinformation.

The Army assured Nigerians that a comprehensive review of the operation is underway to relaunch efforts to rid the region of terrorism. While mourning the loss of its gallant officers and men, the Army remains resolute in its commitment to achieving lasting peace in the North East.

“May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in perfect peace. Adieu gallant warriors!” the statement concluded.

This latest operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering determination to defeat terrorism and restore stability to the region, even as it confronts challenges and pays tribute to the sacrifices of its brave soldiers.