By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have sustained offensive operations across the North-East, recording major successes against terrorist networks through the arrest of suspected insurgents and collaborators, disruption of logistics supply chains, recovery of weapons, and the consolidation of security gains across the theatre.
According to an official signed statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the achievements were recorded under the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY V, which continues to target terrorist enclaves and criminal networks in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States.
The statement disclosed that troops, acting on intelligence and surveillance reports, recorded significant breakthroughs against Boko Haram and ISWAP logistics networks. At Benisheikh Market in Borno State, troops working alongside Forest Guards arrested a suspected terrorist logistics supplier, Girema Aliko, 40, who had been on a security watchlist.
The suspect was intercepted while transporting 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and reportedly confessed during preliminary interrogation to supplying fuel and other logistics materials to terrorist elements.
In a separate operation within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, troops of the 7 Division Provost Group arrested another suspected terrorist logistics supplier and informant, Mohammed Bulama, 25, at Ngawom, Muna Garage. Preliminary investigations established links between the suspect and terrorist elements, while security authorities disclosed that he had indicated willingness to provide further intelligence to support ongoing operations.
The military also apprehended an absconded soldier, Private Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, who allegedly deserted his unit with his service weapon. He was arrested in Maiduguri, and investigations reportedly revealed his involvement in criminal activities, including robbery, during the period of his absence. His rifle and magazines have been recovered, while he remains in military custody pending further investigation and disciplinary action.
Earlier operations led to the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and member of a criminal syndicate in Biu Local Government Area. The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities across several communities, while also revealing connections between criminal gangs and terrorist groups through the circulation of weapons recovered from neutralised insurgents.
In another breakthrough, troops operating in the Gubio axis arrested a suspected logistics supplier transporting large quantities of food items allegedly destined for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, further disrupting the supply networks sustaining terrorist activities.
In Adamawa State, troops working in collaboration 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 recorded progress in ongoing surrender and disarmament efforts, with a fleeing Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter surrendering alongside two children in the Kukawa axis, citing sustained military pressure.
Meanwhile, offensive operations conducted in the Damboa axis revealed several abandoned terrorist enclaves. During the clearance operation, troops recovered rocket-propelled grenade bombs and PKT ammunition, further degrading the operational capabilities of insurgent groups in the area.
As part of ongoing stabilisation efforts and in line with due process, troops handed over 13 detainees to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Theatre Command stated that the cumulative impact of these operations has significantly weakened terrorist logistics networks, disrupted their activities, and reduced their freedom of movement across the region.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations, protecting lives and property, and restoring lasting peace, security, and economic stability throughout the North-East.
