IED Blast Kills Commanding Officer, Six Soldiers After Repelling Terrorist Attack in Monguno

Troops of Sector 3 under the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have repelled an attempted terrorist infiltration on their position in Monguno, Borno State, but suffered a devastating loss after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) killed a Commanding Officer and six soldiers.

A statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the incident occurred late on April 12, 2026, when suspected terrorists launched what was described as an isolated attack on the “Charlie 13” location.

According to him, troops engaged the assailants in a fierce gun battle, successfully forcing them to retreat while maintaining full control of the position.

However, tragedy struck shortly after the engagement.

The Commanding Officer, in a move described as emblematic of frontline leadership, was reportedly advancing towards the troops’ location to personally assess the situation when his vehicle struck an IED. The explosion claimed his life and those of six other personnel.

Military authorities said the officer’s actions reflected “the highest traditions of military leadership,” highlighting his courage, selflessness, and commitment to the welfare of his troops.

“He chose to move towards the front in the aftermath of the engagement, despite the risks, demonstrating uncommon bravery and dedication to duty,” the statement noted.

The Joint Task Force expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the fallen officer and soldiers as gallant personnel who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.

Despite the casualties, troops remain in firm control of the Monguno position, with ongoing operations aimed at sustaining pressure on terrorist elements in the North-East theatre.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its resolve to continue the fight against insurgency, noting that the sacrifice of the fallen heroes will not be in vain.

The North-East region, particularly Borno State, remains a focal point of counter-insurgency operations, with security forces sustaining offensives to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting stability.