In a significant blow to terrorist activities in the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have apprehended eight suspects linked to a suicide bombing network and confiscated a large quantity of fuel intended for insurgents in separate operations across Adamawa State.
Coordinated Raid Nets Key Bombing Facilitators
The arrests were announced on Monday by the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East), Lt. Col. Sani Uba. He stated that the operations were part of intensified cordon-and-search missions targeting individuals connected to the recent Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.
According to the military, OPHK forces carried out a coordinated raid in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area in the early hours of January 5, 2026. This action followed a period of sustained surveillance on identified locations. Among those captured were two principal suspects believed to be key facilitators within the bombing network.
A subsequent search of their residence yielded a trove of evidential items, which are now subject to forensic analysis. The recovered materials include:
- Cash
- Mobile phones
- Identification documents
- ATM cards
- Jewellery and other personal effects
Fuel Smuggling Attempt Thwarted in Maiha
In a related operation on January 4, 2026, OPHK troops successfully intercepted a consignment of suspected terrorist logistics in Mayo Nguli, Maiha Local Government Area. The troops discovered and seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), estimated at 1,125 litres.
The military reported that the suppliers abandoned the fuel and fled immediately upon sighting the approaching troops. No casualties were recorded during this interdiction. The seized petroleum products are now in military custody pending further investigation and disposal.
Investigation Deepens with Custodial Identification
The investigation into the arrested suspects has gained crucial momentum. During identification procedures, a suspect already in military custody reportedly identified the two principal arrestees as the individuals who supplied materials used in preparing the improvised explosive device (IED) for the Gamboru attack.
Other occupants of the raided residence were also linked to the terrorist network. All eight suspects remain in military custody and are undergoing intensive interrogation to gather further intelligence before being handed over to the appropriate agencies for prosecution.
Military Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Operation HADIN KAI stated that these successful operations underscore its unwavering commitment to dismantling terrorist networks, disrupting their supply chains, and preventing future attacks in the region.
The military high command also used the opportunity to call on residents of Adamawa and the broader North East to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies. This collaboration is deemed essential for sustaining the hard-won peace and security in the area.
