Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along a strategic highway in Borno State, averting a potential attack on motorists and security personnel.
The explosive was detected by soldiers during a security operation along the Ngoshe–Pulka road in Gwoza Local Government Area on Wednesday.
The troops immediately secured the area and restricted access to the device before carrying out procedures to safely neutralise the explosive and eliminate the threat to road users.
The operation was conducted by troops of the 81 Division Task Force Battalion under Operation Hadin Kai.
A military source said the discovery highlighted the importance of sustained patrols along routes considered vulnerable to attacks.
“The prompt detection of the device prevented a potentially dangerous incident involving troops and civilians,” the source said.
The Ngoshe–Pulka road connects communities within the Gwoza axis and has remained a key route for residents and security personnel operating in the area.
The development comes amid continued military efforts to secure roads and communities across Borno State against attacks by insurgents.
Troops have continued to conduct patrols and other security operations along strategic routes to protect civilians, commuters and security personnel from attacks and explosive threats.