The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) successfully targeted a group of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Borno State, resulting in the deaths of nine individuals, including a high-ranking commander. The operation occurred on Saturday, August 8, 2026, within the Sambisa Forest region.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF spokesperson, stated that the mission was guided by ongoing surveillance using a Remotely Piloted Aircraft. Military personnel identified and tracked the group to their base before executing a precision strike. Post-operation assessments confirmed that several combatants were killed or wounded during the engagement.
Among the casualties was Abu Khalid Al Muhajir, a commander known for managing security escorts for ISWAP leadership. The NAF noted that his death is likely to disrupt the group’s logistics and movement across their forest enclaves. Furthermore, intelligence suggests some of the targeted militants were connected to a recent ambush against Nigerian soldiers near Gwoza. The military remains committed to using intelligence-driven operations to restrict insurgent activity and enhance safety in Nigeria’s North-East.
