Operation Hadin Kai Troops Arrest Terror Suspects, Disrupt Logistics Networks in North-East
Operation Hadin Kai Troops Arrest Terror Suspects, Disrupt Logistics Networks in North-East
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have sustained pressure on terrorist groups operating in the North-East, recording major operational successes including the arrest of suspected terrorists and their collaborators, disruption of logistics supply networks, recovery of arms and ammunition, and the consolidation of security gains across the region.
The military disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, who said the successes were achieved through coordinated operations conducted in conjunction with Operation Desert Sanity V.
According to the statement, intelligence-driven operations across Borno and Yobe states led to significant breakthroughs against terrorist logistics networks and criminal elements.
Among those arrested was a 40-year-old suspect, Girema Aliko, who was apprehended at Benisheikh Market by troops of Operation Hadin Kai working alongside Forest Guards. Aliko, who had reportedly been on a security watchlist, was intercepted while attempting to transport 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). During preliminary interrogation, he allegedly confessed to supplying fuel and other logistics to Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
In a separate operation within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, troops of the 7 Division Provost Group arrested another suspect, Mohammed Bulama, 25, at Ngawom, Muna Garage. Military authorities said preliminary investigations established links between the suspect and terrorist elements, adding that he had expressed willingness to provide further intelligence to support ongoing operations.
The troops also arrested an absconded soldier, Private Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, who allegedly deserted his unit with his service weapon. He was apprehended in Maiduguri, where investigations reportedly revealed his involvement in criminal activities, including robbery, during his period of absence. His rifle and magazines have since been recovered, while he remains in military custody.
In Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, troops arrested a suspected kidnapper believed to be a member of a criminal syndicate. The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities across several communities. He also disclosed alleged links between criminal groups and terrorist elements through the use of weapons recovered from neutralised insurgents.
Similarly, troops operating in the Gubio axis intercepted another suspected terrorist logistics supplier who was transporting large quantities of food items allegedly destined for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
In Adamawa State, troops working alongside local hunters arrested two suspected ISWAP members. According to the military, the suspects confessed to participating in attacks and abductions in parts of Borno and Adamawa states.
The military also reported progress in ongoing disarmament and surrender efforts, noting that a fleeing Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter surrendered along with two children in the Kukawa axis due to sustained military pressure.
Meanwhile, troops conducting offensive operations in the Damboa axis discovered several terrorist enclaves that had been abandoned. During the operation, security forces recovered rocket-propelled grenade bombs and PKT ammunition, further degrading the operational capabilities of terrorist groups in the area.
As part of ongoing stabilisation efforts and adherence to due process, the military said 13 detainees were handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Operation Hadin Kai noted that the cumulative impact of the recent operations has significantly disrupted terrorist networks, weakened their logistics structures and reduced their ability to operate freely across the North-East.
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations, protecting lives and property, and restoring lasting peace, security and economic stability in the region.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba said troops remain highly motivated and committed to denying terrorist groups freedom of action throughout the theatre of operations.
By TimesNG