Nigerian Troops Kill 21 Boko Haram Insurgents in Borno Ambush, Intercept Massive Logistics Convoy and Lagos-Registered Supply Vehicle

In a significant blow to the remnants of the Boko Haram insurgency, the Nigerian Army has confirmed the neutralization of 21 terrorists following a fierce ambush on a strategic logistics convoy in Borno State. The operation, which took place over the weekend, is part of a renewed offensive tagged Operation Desert Sanity IV and V.

The Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, revealed that the military successfully disrupted a critical supply line intended to replenish insurgent camps ahead of the festive season.

The breakthrough began on December 17 when troops patrolling the Damboa–Komala axis discovered and neutralized a lethal Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted to target military convoys and civilian commuters. Building on that momentum, soldiers laid an ambush for a suspected logistics movement, resulting in a heavy firefight that left 21 insurgents dead and several others fleeing with gunshot wounds.

“Our troops are operating with a clear mandate to degrade the enemy’s sustainment capabilities,” Lt. Col. Uba stated. “By intercepting these supplies—ranging from spare tires and engine parts to basic food staples—we are effectively starving the terror cells of the resources they need to launch attacks.”

A particularly striking development occurred on December 19, when vigilant troops at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri–Bama Road intercepted a vehicle with Lagos registration number AKD 244 YE. The car was found to be packed with energy drinks and food items destined for a Boko Haram enclave in the Kirawa ward of Gwoza Local Government Area. Two suspects were taken into custody and are currently assisting military intelligence with investigations.

The list of recovered items highlights the scale of the disrupted network, featuring over 30 spare tires, 23 rims, and large quantities of flour, yams, and charcoal. Military analysts suggest the insurgents are increasingly relying on civilian vehicles and commercial suppliers to bypass detection, a strategy the Army says it is now “thoroughly counteracting” through intelligence-led checkpoints.

The High Command has commended the gallantry of the troops, urging them to maintain the current operational tempo to ensure a peaceful Christmas and New Year period for the residents of the North East.