NAF Air Strike Targets ISWAP Hideout in Lake Chad, Key Operatives Reportedly Neutralised
NAF Air Strike Targets ISWAP Hideout in Lake Chad, Key Operatives Reportedly Neutralised
NAF Air Strike Targets ISWAP Hideout in Lake Chad, Key Operatives Reportedly Neutralised
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has reported a major operational success against terrorists following a precision air strike on an identified hideout in the Lake Chad region on October 19, 2026.
According to the NAF, preliminary post-strike assessments indicate that several prominent Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters were neutralised during the operation.
Among those reportedly killed were JINDULLAH, identified as the group’s chief security guard and a confidant of Abu Saleem, and ABUL KISSA, said to be a member of ISWAP’s Shura Council.
The Air Force also reported the destruction of logistical assets, including boat engines and motorcycles believed to support the group’s movement and operational activities.
The operation forms part of the NAF’s ongoing intelligence-led air campaign aimed at degrading terrorist networks, disrupting their logistics and reducing their capacity to threaten communities across Nigeria’s North-East.
The military said the strike targeted terrorist elements operating in difficult terrain, with the reported neutralisation of key operatives and destruction of logistical resources expected to disrupt the group’s activities.
Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to sustaining air operations against terrorist networks in support of efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
He said the Air Force would continue working with sister Services and other security agencies to consolidate operational gains, protect vulnerable communities and support efforts towards lasting peace in the North-East.
The statement was signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on October 19, 2026
NAF Air Strike Targets ISWAP Hideout in Lake Chad, Key Operatives Reportedly Neutralised
