Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), operating under Operation DESERT SANITY V/SIEGE OPERATIONS, have sustained operational momentum across the theatre, ensuring the peaceful conduct of Eid El Adha prayers while maintaining pressure on terrorist and criminal elements in the region.
In Ngoshe community, troops provided robust security coverage for Eid El Adha prayers held at the Central Mosque, where personnel also participated alongside vigilante groups and residents in the observance. The development marks a significant indication of improved security and growing public confidence in previously volatile areas.
The successful gathering in Ngoshe is regarded as symbolic, given the community’s earlier exposure to terrorist threats, and reflects ongoing military efforts aimed at restoring normalcy and facilitating the safe return of displaced persons. Prayers were offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, national peace, and continued stability in the North East.
Similarly, troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade ensured comprehensive security during Eid prayers across designated worship centres in Gwoza town, enabling a peaceful and orderly celebration. Senior military commanders also conveyed goodwill messages to personnel, reinforcing morale and commitment to ongoing operations.
In separate counter-criminal operations, troops responded swiftly to a robbery incident in Gar Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, following credible intelligence. Three suspects—Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed, and Adamu Aliyu—were arrested without resistance after being positively identified by victims.
Items recovered from the suspects included mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, a dagger, cash, and a locally made firearm. Preliminary investigations indicated that the weapon belonged to Mallam Manu Ibrahim, a member of the Miyetti Allah group, who had been robbed a day earlier. The firearm has since been recovered and returned to its rightful owner.
In another development, troops in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) apprehended a suspected terrorist collaborator, identified as 33-year-old Alhaji Gambo, during routine checks at the entry point to Monguno town. Items recovered from him included vehicle spare parts and personal belongings. He is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.
The Theatre Command noted that while the overall security situation remains calm but unpredictable, troops continue to demonstrate high morale, professionalism, and operational effectiveness in sustaining pressure on hostile elements.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action, protecting civilian populations, and consolidating gains towards lasting peace and stability in the North East. The Military High Command commended troops for their performance and urged them to maintain dominance of the operational environment to completely neutralise terrorist networks across the theatre.
