Troops of the Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have recorded a major operational success with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials intended for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
The breakthrough followed sustained joint operations and credible intelligence aimed at securing Banki town in Bama Local Government Area. The operation was carried out by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies.
Confirming the development in release, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said 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 found in possession of primed IED components, indicating an imminent plan to carry out an attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect hail from Bama Local Government Area and was also found with other incriminating materials linked to terrorist activities. He is currently undergoing detailed interrogation to uncover his sponsors, collaborators, and possible links to terrorist networks operating in the area.
In a related operation, troops deployed at the Cameroon–Nigeria border gate intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a key precursor material commonly used in the production of IEDs. The vehicle and its contents 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 remain in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba added that troops of JTF NE OPHK continue to dominate their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations, and sustained presence to deny JAS/ISWAP terrorists freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
He reassured the public that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high, stressing that operations are ongoing in line with the mandate to restore lasting peace and security across the North East, while urging citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
