In a significant blow to terrorist activities in the North East, Nigerian military forces have successfully neutralised a deadly explosive device and apprehended two individuals suspected of supplying provisions to insurgent groups in Borno State.
Operations Desert Sanity Yield Results
The Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI announced the twin successes on Saturday. The operations, conducted under Operations Desert Sanity IV and V, are part of a sustained military campaign to dismantle the operational capabilities of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the region.
IED Discovered and Safely Detonated
In the first incident, troops from the 25 Brigade made a critical discovery on December 17. While on a routine patrol along the vital Damboa–Komala main supply route, the soldiers uncovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by the roadside. The military immediately secured the area and carried out a controlled detonation of the device. This swift action averted a potential tragedy, protecting both military personnel and civilians who frequently use that corridor.
Checkpoint Interception Based on Intelligence
In a separate but equally crucial operation on December 19, troops manning a checkpoint on the Maiduguri–Bama Road acted on what the army described as credible intelligence. They intercepted a vehicle with Lagos registration plates. Upon search, the vehicle was found to be loaded with a large cache of supplies, including:
- Assorted food items
- Energy drinks
- Three mobile phones
- An identity card
- A ring
- Cash in Nigerian Naira and CFA francs
The military believes these items were intended as logistics support for terrorists operating around Kirawa Ward in Gwoza Local Government Area. The two occupants of the vehicle were promptly arrested.
Suspects Handed Over for Further Investigation
The Nigerian Army confirmed that the two suspects, along with the intercepted vehicle and all recovered items, have been transferred to the appropriate military intelligence unit. This move will allow for a thorough investigation to uncover wider logistics networks and facilitate necessary legal action.
The Defence Headquarters commended the troops for their vigilance and professionalism. In an official statement, the high command urged the forces to sustain the current operational tempo. The military reiterated its unwavering commitment to denying armed groups freedom of movement, disrupting their supply chains, and ultimately enhancing security for residents in Nigeria's conflict-affected northeast, where violence has persisted for over a decade.
