Troops Arrest Suspected Suicide Bomber, Intercept IED Materials in Borno
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, have arrested a suspected suicide bomber and intercepted materials used for the production of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
INCNews247 learnt the suspect was arrested during an intelligence-led operation by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies at Banki town in Bama Local Government Area.
Confirming the development in a statement on Tuesday, the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt-Col Sani Uba said the suspect, identified as Abubakar Mustapha, was apprehended at about 5:40pm on Monday at the Banki Central Mosque.
READ ALSO: 2026 Hajj: NAHCON Begins Early Medical Preparations
He was found in possession of primed IED components, suggesting plans to carry out an imminent attack.
Preliminary investigations showed that the suspect is from Bama Local Government Area and was also found with other materials linked to terrorist activities.
It was further gathered that he is currently undergoing interrogation to identify his sponsors, collaborators and possible links with terrorist groups operating in the area.
In a related development, troops deployed at the Cameroon–Nigeria border gate intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a key material commonly used in making IEDs.
The vehicle and the fertiliser were immediately taken into military custody.
Further intelligence-led operations led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total seized to 12 bags.
All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and prosecution.
The military said troops of Operation Hadin Kai have continued aggressive patrols and sustained presence across their areas of responsibility to deny terrorists freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
It added that the morale of the troops remains high as efforts continue to restore peace and security in the North East.
