The military under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has identified Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf,” as the alleged principal coordinator of a suicide bombing network linked to recent attacks and attempted attacks in Nigeria’s North-East.
The disclosure followed intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations conducted in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025, during which 14 suspects connected to suicide bombing activities were arrested. Subsequent investigations, according to the military, helped uncover the structure, roles, and operational linkages of the terror cell.
In a statement issued on Saturday, OPHK said a suspected suicide bomber currently in custody, identified as Ibrahim Muhammad, provided information that led to Shariff Umar being named as the ringleader of the network.
Investigators alleged that Umar was responsible for recruiting, preparing, directing, and deploying suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and the supply of improvised explosive device (IED) components.
The military further stated that investigations linked Shariff Umar to the suicide bombing attack at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, as well as a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu. He was also accused of personally handing over IED components to a suicide bomber in Maiduguri.
According to OPHK, further inquiries established additional links within the network, including the alleged involvement of Shariff Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu.
His stepdaughter, Amina, was also said to have provided information confirming that she had previously seen a suspected bomber at their residence, strengthening the investigative trail.
All suspects, the military said, remain in custody and are undergoing intensive investigations aimed at dismantling the network, identifying additional collaborators, and recovering any remaining explosives or logistical assets.
OPHK emphasized that the breakthrough highlights the importance of cooperation between security agencies and local communities, noting that terrorist groups often rely on concealment within civilian populations.
The military urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to preventing attacks and restoring lasting peace in the North-East.
The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, and dated January 3, 2026.
