Troops arrest terror suspects, disrupt logistics networks in North-East

Troops arrest terror suspects, disrupt logistics networks in North-East

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have recorded fresh successes in ongoing counter-terrorism operations across Nigeria’s North-East, arresting suspected terrorist collaborators, disrupting logistics supply networks, recovering weapons and ammunition, and sustaining pressure on insurgent groups operating in the region.

The military said the operations, conducted in conjunction with Operation Desert Sanity V, targeted Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements as well as criminal networks supporting their activities in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states.

In one of the operations, troops working alongside Forest Guards arrested a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP logistics supplier, identified as Girema Aliko, at Benisheikh Market in Borno State. Military authorities said the 40-year-old suspect, who had been on a security watchlist, was intercepted while transporting 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

According to the military, preliminary interrogation revealed that the suspect had been supplying fuel and other logistics to terrorist groups operating in the region.

In a separate operation within Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, troops attached to the 7 Division Provost Group arrested Mohammed Bulama, 25, who was alleged to be a logistics supplier and informant for terrorist elements. Security officials said preliminary investigations established links between the suspect and insurgent groups, adding that he had indicated a willingness to provide intelligence that could support ongoing operations.

Troops also arrested an absconded soldier, Private Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, who allegedly deserted his unit with his service weapon. Military authorities said he was apprehended in Maiduguri after intelligence gathering and surveillance operations.

Preliminary findings reportedly linked the soldier to robbery and other criminal activities during the period he was absent from duty. His rifle and magazines were recovered, while investigations continue.

In Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, troops arrested a suspected kidnapper and member of a criminal syndicate. The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in kidnapping and cattle rustling activities and disclosed links between criminal gangs and terrorist groups through the circulation of weapons obtained from insurgents.

Another suspected logistics supplier was apprehended in the Gubio axis while transporting large quantities of food items allegedly intended for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, further disrupting supply routes used to sustain terrorist operations.

In neighbouring Adamawa State, troops operating alongside 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 ongoing surrender and disarmament efforts, stating that a fleeing Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter surrendered with two children in the Kukawa area as a result of sustained operational pressure on insurgent groups.

Meanwhile, troops conducting offensive operations around Damboa discovered several deserted terrorist enclaves and recovered rocket-propelled grenade bombs and PKT ammunition. The military said the recoveries further weakened the operational capability of insurgent fighters in the area.

The latest successes come amid intensified military operations across the Lake Chad Basin and North-East region, where security forces have continued to target terrorist hideouts, logistics routes and support networks.

Military authorities said 13 detainees were subsequently handed over to appropriate agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution, reaffirming the commitment of Operation Hadin Kai to restoring lasting peace and security across the North-East.