The Nigerian Army has explained how a coordinated military operation with the United States Africa Command resulted in the death of a senior Islamic State figure, Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, in Borno State.
The Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, confirmed that the top extremist commander was killed during a precision offensive in Metele, within the Lake Chad Basin area.
According to a statement from the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the operation was executed after extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities.
Troops reportedly struck a heavily fortified terrorist hideout in the early hours of May 16, with the mission supported by airstrikes and ground forces. The assault began around 12:01 a.m. and ended approximately 4:00 a.m.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with United States Africa Command, targeting insurgent positions in the Metele axis.
Military authorities confirmed that Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, also known as Abu Bakr ibn Muhammad ibn Ali al-Mainuki, was killed alongside several other commanders and fighters linked to Islamic State networks operating in the region.
He had previously been designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the United States in June 2023 over alleged involvement in financing and coordinating extremist operations across the Sahel and Lake Chad areas.
The Nigerian Army said special forces units blocked escape routes during the raid while providing support for the air component of the mission.
It also confirmed that no casualties or equipment losses were recorded among troops involved in the operation.
According to the military, follow-up clearance operations and battle damage assessments are ongoing to track any remaining insurgents in the area.
The Army described the mission as a major breakthrough in counterterrorism efforts in the North-East, saying it would significantly weaken Islamic State West Africa Province and affiliated terror cells operating in the region.
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