Troops Nab Suspected Suicide Bomber, Recover IED Components in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have achieved a significant operational milestone with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the recovery of materials meant for the fabrication of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.

The operation was executed by personnel of the 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that the suspect was arrested 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, suggesting an imminent plan to carry out an attack.
Preliminary findings revealed that the suspect hails from Bama Local Government Area. He was also discovered with other incriminating items linked to terrorist activities. The suspect is currently undergoing thorough interrogation to unravel his sponsors, accomplices, and possible connections to terrorist networks operating within the region.
In a related development, troops stationed at the Cameroon–Nigeria border intercepted a Peugeot vehicle transporting six bags of urea fertiliser, a key ingredient commonly used in the manufacture of IEDs. Both the vehicle and its contents were immediately taken into military custody.
Further exploitation of intelligence led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total number of seized bags to twelve.
All arrested suspects and recovered items are presently in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba stated that troops of JTF NE OPHK continue to maintain dominance across their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and sustained presence aimed at denying JAS/ISWAP terrorists freedom of action and preventing attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. He reassured the public that the morale and combat effectiveness of the troops remain high, noting that operations are ongoing in line with the mandate to restore lasting peace and security in the North East. He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.