Troops Disrupt Terrorist Gathering and Arrest Arms Smugglers in Yobe State
In a significant security development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully disrupted a suspected terrorist gathering and arrested five individuals accused of arms smuggling during separate operations conducted in Yobe State. The operations, which took place over two days, highlight ongoing efforts to combat insurgency and illegal activities in the region.
Disruption of Terrorist Assembly in Mangari
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, on February 19, 2026, troops acted on credible intelligence. At approximately 6:21 p.m. on February 17, they conducted a fire mission in Mangari, located about 10.6 kilometers from the 135 Special Forces Battalion in Buratai. Intelligence indicated that terrorists were converging in large numbers on motorcycles, suggesting a planned gathering.
The swift military action forced the insurgents to disperse in disarray, effectively disrupting their suspected plans. This operation underscores the proactive measures taken by security forces to preempt potential threats and maintain stability in the area.
Arrest of Suspected Arms Smugglers on Gombe-Potiskum Road
In a separate incident, troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Potiskum apprehended five suspected arms smugglers and abductors at around 4:30 a.m. on February 18. The arrest occurred at a checkpoint along the Gombe–Potiskum road, following routine security checks.
The suspects include Baba Abare, a 41-year-old individual found in possession of an AK-47 rifle. Four others were identified as Idris Zakari, 33; Nasiru Aliyu, 25; Abdullahi Sulaiman, 35; and Mohammed Idris, 34. All are reported to be indigenes of Potiskum town. They were intercepted while traveling in two Golf Wagon vehicles with registration numbers Borno NGL-506XA and Kaduna DKD16-01.
Upon apprehension, the suspects were disarmed and handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation. This arrest is part of broader efforts to curb the flow of illegal weapons and prevent criminal activities such as abduction in the region.
Implications for Security in Yobe State
These operations demonstrate the continued vigilance and effectiveness of Operation Hadin Kai in addressing security challenges in Yobe State. By disrupting terrorist gatherings and intercepting arms smugglers, the troops aim to enhance public safety and deter future incidents. The coordinated actions reflect a commitment to intelligence-driven strategies and rapid response capabilities in the fight against insurgency and related crimes.
Authorities have emphasized that such operations will persist as part of ongoing security measures to protect communities and ensure peace in the North East region. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
