Troops Kill Boko Haram Second-in-Command, 10 Fighters in Borno — Military
Nigerian troops have killed Abu Khalid, identified as the second-in-command of the Boko Haram terrorist group, along with 10 other fighters during a night operation in Borno State’s Sambisa Forest, the military has confirmed.
According to a statement released by the military on Sunday, the operation was carried out by troops operating under Operation Hadin Kai following actionable intelligence on the movement and location of senior Boko Haram commanders within the forest enclave.
The military said the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, leading to the neutralisation of Abu Khalid, who was described as a key figure involved in coordinating attacks, logistics, and recruitment for the group. Several weapons, ammunition, and other military-grade items were reportedly recovered at the scene.
“The successful elimination of Abu Khalid and his associates represents a significant blow to the Boko Haram terrorist leadership structure,” the military said, adding that the operation has further degraded the group’s operational capacity.
No casualties were recorded on the side of the troops, according to the statement, while follow-up exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing in the area to prevent regrouping by fleeing fighters.
The Sambisa Forest has long served as a stronghold for Boko Haram factions, despite sustained military offensives in the North-East. Security analysts say the killing of a high-ranking commander could weaken the group’s influence and disrupt planned attacks in the region.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist elements and called on residents to continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
Borno State remains at the epicentre of Nigeria’s over-a-decade-long insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions across the North-East.
