May 05, (THEWILL) — Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational gains in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, dismantling elements of a terrorist network, arresting a key informant, rescuing abducted children, and recovering explosive devices across the theatre.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the successes were achieved through a series of coordinated operations conducted in parts of Yobe and Adamawa States.
In Ngamdu, Yobe State, troops on operational patrol apprehended two suspected terrorists identified as Haruna Adamu (32) and Ibrahim Adamu (20).
Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects had fled from Zamfara State into Yobe, likely in a bid to evade ongoing military pressure in the North-West.
Items recovered from the suspects include a smartphone, keypad phone, power bank, identification card, suspected illicit substances, charms, and other personal effects.
The suspects have since been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
In a related development, troops of the 254 Battalion under Sector 2 arrested a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP informant, Ali Muhammad (30), at Ngamdu Market.
The suspect, who had been on the military’s watchlist, was found in possession of a significant amount of cash, a mobile phone, identification cards, charms, a knife, and a notebook containing phone numbers of suspected terrorist contacts.
Security sources described the arrest as a major blow to the intelligence network of terrorist elements operating in the area. The suspect is currently undergoing detailed interrogation at Sector 2 Headquarters.
Further extending the crackdown, troops operating in the Mubi general area of Adamawa State conducted a night operation that led to the arrest of five suspected drug peddlers.
The suspects were found with various illicit substances and ammunition, highlighting the link between criminal activity and insurgent operations. They are currently in custody as investigations continue.
In a separate operation, troops deployed in Madagali Local Government Area, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), responded swiftly to a kidnapping incident.
The joint team successfully rescued two abducted children, Barnabas Apagu (12) and Ruth Apagu (10), while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of other victims believed to still be in captivity.
Meanwhile, troops operating in Kukareta area of Yobe State recovered a hand grenade suspected to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists.
The explosive device was safely secured in line with standard procedures, preventing potential harm to civilians.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience, and professionalism, urging them to sustain the current operational momentum to further degrade terrorist capabilities in the region.
It also reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, restoring lasting peace, and supporting economic recovery across the North-East.
The military further called on citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that public cooperation remains vital to the success of ongoing operations.
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