Nigerian security forces have recorded significant operational gains across the North-East and North-West, including the arrest of a suspected suicide attacker, the seizure of materials used to make improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and the recovery of a large cache of illegal weapons.
North-East: Suspected Bomber Arrested, IED Materials Seized
Arrest and Seizure
• Troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested a suspect identified as Abubakar Mustapha in Banki town, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
• The arrest was carried out on Monday by personnel of the 152 Task Force Battalion, working alongside other security agencies.
• The suspect was found with primed IED components, suggesting preparations for an imminent attack.
Official Statement
According to Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East:
• Preliminary investigations indicate the suspect is from Bama LGA.
• Additional items allegedly linking him to terrorist activity were recovered.
• He is currently undergoing interrogation to identify sponsors, collaborators, and links to terrorist groups operating in the area.
Border Interdiction: Fertiliser Linked to Explosives Production
Cameroon–Nigeria Border Operation
• Troops intercepted a Peugeot vehicle carrying six bags of urea fertiliser, a substance commonly used in IED production.
• Following intelligence-led follow-up operations, the fertiliser dealer was arrested and six more bags were recovered, bringing the total to 12 bags.
• The vehicle, suspects, and recovered items are now in military custody for further investigation and prosecution.
Military Assurance
The military reaffirmed its resolve to maintain pressure on insurgent groups, emphasizing sustained patrols and intelligence-driven operations to protect civilians and infrastructure.
North-West: Weapons Recovery and Mass Rescue Operations
Operation Fasanyama Results
In the North-West, the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, Sector 2, reported major successes across Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara States:
• 189 AK-47 rifles and thousands of rounds of ammunition recovered
• 1,023 kidnapped victims rescued
• Multiple bandit camps destroyed and several bandit leaders neutralised
Command Perspective
Speaking at the 2025 Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, said the operations have:
• Significantly reduced attacks
• Restored confidence among local communities
• Enabled farmers and traders to return to areas previously deemed unsafe
The GOC added that the division has enhanced its effectiveness through specialised task units capable of precision strike operations.
Troop Welfare and Institutional Support
• Upgrades to medical facilities and recruitment of additional healthcare personnel
• Renovation of accommodation blocks to improve troop living conditions
• Continued emphasis on discipline, vigilance, and professionalism
Tradition and Stakeholder Engagement
The WASA event, a military tradition dating back to 1901, aims to promote unity and cultural integration among West African soldiers.
Attendees included:
• A representative of the Sokoto State Governor, Col. Ahmed Abdoul (retd.)
• The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III
• Other traditional rulers and senior military officers
Related Security Update
Separately, the Kano State Police Command announced the arrest of 3,081 suspects for major crimes between January and December 30, 2025, across multiple police divisions, area commands, and tactical units—highlighting intensified nationwide security efforts.
Security authorities say the combined operations demonstrate sustained momentum against terrorism and banditry, as forces continue coordinated efforts to disrupt criminal networks and strengthen public safety across affected regions.
Source: Africa Publicity
