Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recovered a large cache of high-calibre ammunition in the Bulumkutu Railway general area of Maiduguri, Borno State, in a development that underscores the impact of sustained, intelligence-driven security operations in the North-East.
In a statement, Media Information Officer Headquarters Joint Task Force( North East) Operation HADIN KAI Lieut. Col. Sani Uba said the discovery followed continued troop presence and follow-up actions after a recent cordon-and-search operation aimed at denying terrorist and criminal elements freedom of movement, particularly in the aftermath of multiple suicide bombers neutralised or apprehended within the past week.
At about 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, 2 January 2026, OPHK troops received a distress call reporting suspicious metallic objects concealed within a drainage channel in the Bulumkutu Railway area. Troops, in collaboration with Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, immediately moved to the scene to secure the area and conduct a detailed assessment.
A comprehensive search led to the recovery of 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, including several live rounds, as well as power banks hidden inside the drainage channel. Preliminary safety measures were promptly implemented, while efforts are ongoing to drain the channel to determine whether additional hazardous items are present.
Security forces have continued to dominate the general area to safeguard residents and critical infrastructure, and to prevent any attempt by criminal or terrorist elements to retrieve the recovered items. No casualties or untoward incidents were recorded during the operation, and the security situation in the area remains calm, although troops have maintained heightened vigilance.
The military authorities noted that the successful recovery highlights the value of sustained military pressure, effective intelligence gathering and community cooperation. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious items or movements to security agencies, as collective responsibility remains vital to sustaining peace and security in the North-East.
