In a significant counter-terrorism breakthrough, the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has apprehended a suspected suicide bomber and confiscated materials used for constructing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
Arrest at Banki Central Mosque
The operation, driven by credible intelligence, was executed by troops from the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies. Their mission was to enhance security in Banki and several other communities along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
According to a statement released in Maiduguri by the OPHK Media Information Officer, Lt Col Sani Uba, the suspect was captured at approximately 5:40 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025. The arrest took place at the Banki Central Mosque, where vigilant personnel intercepted the individual.
The suspect has been identified as Abubakar Mustapha, a native of Bama Local Council. At the time of his arrest, he was found carrying primed IED components, pointing to an active plot to attack the border communities of Banki, Kumshe, Darajamal, and Kirawa in Gwoza Local Council.
Interception of Critical Bomb-Making Components
In a related development, troops stationed along the Cameroon-Nigeria border intercepted a Peugeot vehicle transporting six bags of urea fertiliser. This chemical is a critical ingredient commonly used by terrorists in the production of IEDs.
Following further intelligence exploitation from this interception, security forces arrested the fertiliser dealer and recovered an additional six bags of urea. This brings the total quantity seized to 12 bags. Both the vehicle and the fertiliser are now in military custody.
Ongoing Investigations and Operational Goals
Preliminary investigations reveal that Mustapha was also in possession of other incriminating materials linked to terrorist activities in the border regions. He is currently undergoing detailed interrogation to uncover his sponsors, collaborators, and potential connections with terrorist networks operating in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
Lt Col Uba emphasized that all suspects and recovered items remain in military custody for comprehensive investigation and subsequent legal action.
The ongoing operations by Operation Hadin Kai are strategically designed to deny terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the freedom to operate in the Lake Chad region and the Sambisa Forest. The military reports that troop morale and combat effectiveness remain high as they continue efforts to restore lasting peace and security in Nigeria's North-East.
