Borno State, Nigeria – In a fierce confrontation, Nigerian troops from Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attempted infiltration by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists at the Naval Base Lake Chad in Fish Dam during the early hours of Wednesday, 18 June 2025. The military operation, involving coordinated land, maritime, and air forces, neutralised scores of insurgents, preventing a significant breach.

According to the Nigerian Army, the terrorists launched their attack around 2:00 AM, targeting newly acquired Swamp Buggies provided by the Borno State Government for waterway clearance in Lake Chad. The assailants aimed to destroy the equipment but were met with staunch resistance from naval personnel, reinforced by troops from Baga. The intense firefight, lasting over two hours, forced the terrorists to retreat, having failed to access the Swamp Buggies.

The military reported that while the insurgents managed a minimal incursion, they destroyed an ambulance and two other vehicles. Some personnel sustained injuries during the clash. Additionally, the troops recovered Improvised Explosive Device (IED) materials abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

The Nigerian Air Force has since deployed air component platforms to conduct follow-up operations along the waterways, aiming to further degrade the terrorists’ capabilities. The decisive response underscores the Nigerian military’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the Lake Chad region, a known stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP factions.

This latest operation highlights the persistent security challenges in northeastern Nigeria, where government forces continue to confront terrorist groups despite significant territorial gains in recent years. Authorities have yet to release further details on casualties or the condition of the wounded personnel.