Army says intelligence confirmed slain ISIS deputy leader built fortified hideout in Borno
The Nigerian Army has disclosed that intelligence reports confirmed that Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the slain second-in-command of ISIS, had established a concealed and fortified enclave in Metele, Borno State.
Earlier on Saturday, United States President Donald Trump announced that al-Minuki was killed during what he described as a “meticulously planned and very complex” joint military operation involving Nigerian and American forces.
Trump described al-Minuki as one of the world’s most active terrorists, saying his death would significantly weaken ISIS operations globally. He also commended the Nigerian government for its collaboration in the mission.
How the operation unfolded
In a statement issued on Saturday, Sani Uba, media information officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), said the military offensive began in the early hours of May 16.
According to Uba, Nigerian and US troops carried out coordinated precision air and ground strikes on the terrorists’ location, while special forces were deployed to secure the area and block possible escape routes.
He explained that the operation, which started at about 12:01 a.m. and ended around 4:00 a.m., followed months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and legal intercept operations.
“The operation was the result of sustained joint intelligence efforts that enabled full target development and accuracy,” the statement said.
Uba noted that intelligence confirmed al-Minuki and his international terrorist network had established a hidden and fortified base in Metele, located within Sector 3 of Operation HADIN KAI in Borno State.
He added that multiple air platforms were deployed in a coordinated assault that left the terrorists with no opportunity to escape.
The military spokesman said the mission received approval from the Military High Command, reflecting high-level coordination and strategic planning.
He further stated that the operation ended without casualties or loss of military assets, describing it as evidence of effective planning, tactical precision, and growing cooperation between Nigerian and US military forces in the fight against terrorism.
The army confirmed that al-Minuki and members of his cell were successfully neutralised during the raid.
