Troops Kill ISWAP Cameraman, Seize Evidence of Foreign Operatives

​Operations Update: Failed Infiltration Attempt

​Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled a significant infiltration attempt by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Cross Kauwa, Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State. The engagement, which took place late on the night of July 11, 2026, resulted in heavy casualties for the terrorist group and the recovery of crucial intelligence materials.

​The encounter occurred when ISWAP insurgents, reportedly suffering from a cholera outbreak within their enclaves, attempted to breach military positions to loot essential medical supplies. Alert troops, leveraging superior firepower and coordination, forced the terrorists to retreat in disarray.

​Evidence of Transnational Terrorist Links

​During the operation, military forces neutralised an ISWAP cameraman and recovered a Sony camcorder containing highly sensitive footage. Forensic analysis of the device has provided the military with direct evidence of international involvement in the group’s operations.

​The recovered media reveals the presence of at least three foreign terrorist facilitators coordinating alongside senior ISWAP commanders (Qai’ds):

• ​Abu Ishaq: A Palestinian Arab identified as the group’s overall trainer.
• ​Abu Thaiba: A Moroccan Arab serving as a medical doctor for the network.
• ​Unidentified Operative: A third Arab national whose specific role and identity remain under investigation.

​These findings confirm ongoing intelligence assessments that ISWAP continues to benefit from external expertise and transnational linkages, reinforcing the group’s combat capabilities and propaganda efforts.

​Operational Successes Amidst Regional Tensions

​Military officials have described the failed attack as a significant setback for ISWAP, which has been under intense pressure from sustained offensive operations across the North East theatre. Recent reports indicate that the terrorist group is currently facing internal fractures, leadership instability, and logistical strain following a series of successful counter-insurgency missions by Operation Hadin Kai.

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​During the engagement, two Nigerian soldiers sustained gunshot wounds and were promptly evacuated for medical care; both are reported to be in stable condition. Following the firefight, troops conducted thorough exploitation of the area, recovering ammunition, terrorist uniforms, and other combat equipment, further degrading the group’s capacity to launch coordinated attacks.

​The military remains committed to the ongoing mission of dismantling terrorist networks, protecting vulnerable communities, and restoring long-term security in the region.