Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have recorded a major security breakthrough in Borno State with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials believed to be meant for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The suspect, identified as Abubakar Mustapha, was arrested on Monday by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion, working alongside other security agencies, in Banki town, Bama Local Government Area of the state.
Confirming the development, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said the suspect was found in possession of primed IED components, suggesting plans to carry out an imminent attack.
According to him, preliminary investigations showed that Mustapha is a native of Bama Local Government Area and was also found with other incriminating items linked to terrorist activities.
“He is currently undergoing detailed interrogation to identify his sponsors, collaborators and possible links to terrorist networks operating within the area,” Uba said.
In a related operation, troops stationed along the Cameroon–Nigeria border intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a key material commonly used in the production of IEDs.
Further intelligence-led operations led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags, bringing the total number seized to twelve.
“The vehicle and fertiliser have been taken into military custody, while all suspects and recovered items are undergoing further investigation for necessary legal action,” Uba added.
The military reassured residents of the North-East of its continued commitment to restoring peace and security, stressing that troops would maintain pressure on terrorist groups.
“Troops of JTF NE Operation Hadin Kai continue to dominate their areas through aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations and sustained presence to deny JAS and ISWAP terrorists freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army also reported significant successes in the North-West under Operation Fasanyama.
The 8 Division, Sector 2, disclosed that its troops recovered 189 AK-47 rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition and other criminal items, while rescuing 1,023 kidnapped victims during operations across Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states.
Speaking during the 2025 Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) at the division’s headquarters, the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, said several bandit leaders were neutralised, terrorist camps destroyed and attacks significantly reduced.
“These operations have restored confidence among communities. Farmers and traders can now access areas that were previously considered unsafe,” the GOC said.
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He added that the division has strengthened its operational capacity by setting up special task units designed for precision strike-and-destroy missions.
The army also prioritised troop welfare, upgrading medical facilities, engaging additional health personnel and renovating accommodation blocks.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to consolidating the gains recorded and building a professional, combat-ready and resilient force. Personnel must remain disciplined, vigilant and security-conscious,” he said.
The WASA event, a long-standing tradition dating back to 1901 aimed at promoting unity and cultural integration among West African soldiers, was attended by the representative of the Sokoto State Governor, Col. Ahmed Abdoul (retd.), the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and other traditional rulers.
In another development, the Kano State Police Command announced that it arrested 3,081 suspects for various serious crimes between January and December 30, 2025, across its divisions, area commands and tactical units. Further details of the arrests are expected to be made public by the command.
