Nigerian troops have repelled an attempted infiltration by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Cross Kauwa, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, dealing another blow to insurgents operating in the North-East.
The operation, carried out by troops of the 19 Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI, forced the attackers to retreat after a fierce gun battle.
Military authorities said the insurgents attempted to exploit darkness to infiltrate the community late Saturday night but were detected and engaged by vigilant troops. Several terrorists were reportedly killed, while others escaped with injuries.
A significant discovery from the operation was a Sony camcorder recovered from a slain terrorist cameraman.
According to military sources, preliminary forensic analysis of the device revealed operational footage and propaganda materials linking the mission to senior ISWAP commanders and foreign collaborators.
Among those allegedly identified were a Palestinian trainer known as Abu Ishaq, a Moroccan doctor identified as Abu Thaiba, and another Arab operative.
The revelations raise fresh concerns about the continued international connections supporting terrorism in Nigeria despite years of military campaigns and repeated government assurances that insurgents have been largely degraded.
Troops also recovered ammunition, uniforms and other equipment. Two soldiers sustained injuries and are reportedly receiving treatment.
