By Nkechi Eze
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have sustained intensified military operations across the North East Theatre while ensuring the peaceful conduct of Eid El Adha prayers in communities previously threatened by terrorist activities.
According to an official signed statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops deployed under the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY V/SIEGE OPERATIONS consolidated recent security gains through a series of coordinated operations aimed at protecting civilians and dismantling criminal networks.
The statement disclosed that troops deployed in Ngoshe community provided adequate security and joined vigilantes and residents in the peaceful observance of Eid El Adha prayers at the Ngoshe Central Mosque. The development was described as symbolic given the community’s previous exposure to attacks by terrorist elements, reflecting what the military termed the effectiveness of ongoing aggressive operations and the gradual restoration of normalcy in the area.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba noted that the initiative aligns with efforts to consolidate operational successes and encourage the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral communities. Special prayers were also offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, peace in the North East, and national stability.
Similarly, troops of Headquarters 26 Task Force Brigade under OPHK provided robust security coverage during Eid prayers at designated mosques within Gwoza town, creating a secure atmosphere for worshippers. The statement added that goodwill messages from senior military leadership were delivered to troops to boost morale and reinforce commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
In a separate operation, troops swiftly responded to credible intelligence on robbery activities in Gar Gwigwi village in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, leading to the arrest of three suspected criminals identified as Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed, and Adamu Aliyu. The suspects, who had allegedly been terrorising residents, were apprehended without resistance after being positively identified by victims.
Items recovered during the operation included mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, cash, a dagger, and a dane gun. Preliminary investigations revealed that the firearm belonged to Mallam Manu Ibrahim, a member of the Miyetti Allah group, who was reportedly robbed a day earlier. The recovered weapon was subsequently returned to its owner.
The statement further revealed that troops of OPHK, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), also arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator identified as Alhaji Gambo, 33, during routine security checks while attempting to enter Monguno town. Recovered items from the suspect included vehicle spare parts and other personal belongings.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba said all arrested suspects are currently in military custody for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of criminal and terrorist networks operating within the theatre.
He stated that although the general security situation across the North East remains calm, it is still unpredictable. He, however, commended troops for maintaining high morale, resilience, professionalism, and operational effectiveness in safeguarding communities across the region.
The Military High Authority also praised troops for their impressive battlefield performance and urged them to sustain offensive operations aimed at completely denying terrorists freedom of action throughout the Operation HADIN KAI theatre.
