Troops of the Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation Hadin Kai, have recorded a major operational breakthrough with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials meant for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
The operation followed sustained intelligence-led actions aimed at securing Banki town in Bama Local Government Area. The arrest was carried out by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the suspect was apprehended at about 5:40 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the Banki Central Mosque.
The suspect, identified as Abubakar Mustapha, was reportedly found in possession of primed IED components, suggesting an imminent attempt to carry out an attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect hails from Bama Local Government Area and was also in possession of other incriminating materials linked to terrorist activities.
Military authorities disclosed that the suspect is currently undergoing detailed interrogation to uncover his sponsors, collaborators, and possible links with terrorist groups operating within the area.
In a related development, troops deployed at the Cameroon–Nigeria border gate intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a substance commonly used in the production of IEDs. The vehicle and the materials were immediately taken into military custody.
Further intelligence exploitation led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total seized to twelve bags. All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
The military said troops of JTF NE Operation Hadin Kai continue to dominate their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and sustained presence to deny terrorists freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba noted that the morale and fighting efficiency of troops remain high as operations continue in line with the mandate to restore lasting peace and security across the North East.
The military reassured the public of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
