Troops of the North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), repelled the assault launched by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters, in Rann, headquarters of Kala Balge Local Government Area of Borno State killing scores of insurgents.
A top Boko Haram commander, identified as Abu Nasr, also known as Amir Fiya, was killed during the failed terrorist attack.
The encounter, which began on Thursday, August 7, and continued into the early hours of Friday, August 8, 2025, saw the recovery of several arms, ammunition, rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs and other explosive devices.
Local sources and OPHK security operatives confirmed that Abu Nasr, who led the infiltration from Cameroon into Rann, was among those neutralised.
“Troops of OPHK from Thursday night till early Friday morning repelled an attack on Rann community with support from air assets, neutralising scores of the terrorists that infiltrated from Cameroon, including their top commander and leader, Abu Nasr,” a source said.
Seven terrorist bodies were reportedly recovered during mop-up operations, with blood trails indicating more casualties.
Regrettably, two Nigerian soldiers lost their lives after an RPG fired by the insurgents struck their vehicle.
“Additionally, AK47 rifles, magazines, rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs and other explosive ordinances were recovered by the troops,” the source added.
Rann, located about 197 kilometres from Maiduguri and bordering Cameroon, has long been a hotspot for cross-border terrorist incursions.
Military sources said the troops’ morale remains high as clearance operations continue in the area.
