The Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has apprehended a suspected suicide bomber and intercepted materials intended for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
The operations, conducted by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies, targeted Banki town in Bama Local Government Area, based on credible intelligence and sustained patrols.
At approximately 1740 hours on Monday, 29 December 2025, personnel stationed at the Banki Central Mosque arrested a suspected suicide bomber, identified as Abubakar Mustapha. The suspect was found in possession of primed IED components, indicating a possible imminent attack. Preliminary investigations revealed that Mustapha hails from Bama Local Government Area and was also in possession of additional materials linked to terrorist activities. He is undergoing detailed interrogation to determine his sponsors, collaborators, and possible connections with terrorist networks in the area.
In a related operation along the Cameroon–Nigeria border, troops intercepted a Peugeot vehicle carrying six bags of urea fertiliser—a known precursor for IEDs. Further investigation led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags, bringing the total seizure to twelve bags. All suspects and seized items remain in military custody for further investigation and legal action.
JTF NE OPHK reiterated its commitment to maintaining security in its areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations, and sustained presence, aimed at denying terrorists freedom of movement and preventing attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of JTF NE, assured the public of the military’s continued dedication to protecting lives and property, urging citizens to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
