By Harriet Tornguvan
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded a major operational breakthrough with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials believed to be meant for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
The development was disclosed in a statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
According to the statement, the arrests followed sustained joint operations and actionable intelligence aimed at securing Banki towns in Bama Local Government Area. The operations were carried out by troops of 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies.
It stated that troops deployed at the Banki Central Mosque apprehended a suspected suicide bomber identified as Abubakar Mustapha. The suspect was reportedly found in possession of primed IED components, suggesting an imminent plan to carry out an attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect hails from Bama Local Government Area and was also found with other incriminating items linked to terrorist activities. He is currently undergoing intensive interrogation to determine his sponsors, collaborators and possible connections with terrorist networks operating in the area.
In a related operation, troops stationed at the Cameroon Nigeria border gate intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a substance commonly used as a precursor in the production of IEDs. The vehicle and the consignment were immediately taken into military custody.
Further intelligence exploitation led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total number of seized bags to twelve. All suspects, as well as the recovered items, are presently in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action.
The statement added that troops of Operation HADIN KAI continue to dominate their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations and sustained presence, aimed at denying JAS/ISWAP terrorists freedom of action and preventing attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
It noted that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high as operations continue in line with the mandate to restore lasting peace and security across the North East.
The military reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging citizens to continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies in support of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
