By Harriet Tornguvan
The Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has recorded fresh operational successes in its ongoing counter-terrorism campaign, arresting suspected terrorist collaborators, disrupting logistics networks and recovering weapons across Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the operations were conducted in conjunction with Operation Desert Sanity V as part of sustained efforts to weaken insurgent networks and consolidate security gains in the North-East.
The military said intelligence-driven operations led to the arrest of several suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) logistics suppliers and collaborators.
One of the suspects, identified as 40 year old Girema Aliko, was apprehended at Benisheikh Market in Borno State by troops working alongside Forest Guards. He was intercepted while allegedly transporting 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and reportedly confessed during preliminary interrogation to supplying fuel and other logistics to terrorist groups.
In a separate operation within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, troops of the 7 Division Provost Group arrested Mohammed Bulama, 25, at Ngawom, Muna Garage. Military authorities said investigations established his links with terrorist elements and that he had indicated willingness to provide further intelligence to support ongoing operations.
The military also arrested an absconded soldier, Private Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, who allegedly deserted his unit with his service weapon. Preliminary investigations reportedly linked him to criminal activities, including robbery, during the period of his absence. His rifle and magazines were recovered, while he remains in custody pending further investigation and disciplinary action.
In Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, troops apprehended a suspected kidnapper and member of a criminal syndicate. The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities across several communities. He also disclosed links between criminal groups and terrorist elements through the use of weapons recovered from neutralised insurgents.
Another suspected terrorist logistics supplier was arrested in the Gubio axis while allegedly transporting large quantities of food items intended for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, further disrupting supply chains sustaining terrorist operations.
In neighbouring Adamawa State, troops working with local hunters arrested two suspected ISWAP members who reportedly confessed to participating in attacks and abductions in parts of Borno and Adamawa states.
The military also reported progress in its ongoing disarmament and surrender programme, with a fleeing Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter surrendering alongside two children in the Kukawa axis following sustained military pressure.
Meanwhile, offensive operations conducted in the Damboa axis led to the discovery of several deserted terrorist enclaves. Troops recovered rocket propelled grenade bombs and PKT ammunition during the operation, further degrading the insurgents' combat capability.
As part of ongoing stabilisation efforts, OPHK handed over 13 detainees to appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Theatre Command said the cumulative impact of recent operations had significantly disrupted terrorist networks, weakened their logistics base and reduced their freedom of movement across the region.
It added that troop morale remained high and that offensive operations would continue to deny insurgents the ability to regroup.
The Joint Task Force reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining efforts to restore lasting peace, security and economic stability across the North East.
