By Kingsley Omonobi
In furtherance of the mandate to eliminate terrorism and restore peace in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), in synergy with the Air Component, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local hunters, have intercepted and arrested several collaborators supplying communications equipment, Illicit drugs, IEDs and Arms making materials to terrorists in the North East.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, while making this known, said several terrorists were also killed in ambushes, raids and fighting patrols to terrorists’ hideouts during operations between 15 and 22 July 2025.
“On 19 July, troops arrested Mallam Aminu Idris transporting Starlink equipment without authorization at a checkpoint on Kano–Maiduguri route, suspected of supplying communication tools to terrorists.
“On the same day, a drug peddler named Mr Ali Abba en route to Damasak was arrested with large quantities of tramadol and diazepam.
“Several operations led to the recovery of small arms, ammunition, IED components, motorcycles, bicycles, and communication equipment.
“Multiple ambushes and raids from 18–22 July led to the neutralization of several terrorists and disruption of planned infiltration attempts in Bama, Monguno, and Konduga areas.
He continued, “On 15 July, troops of 114 Battalion intercepted suspected terrorist logistics in Madagali LGA, Adamawa State. Items recovered included 4 motorcycles, soft drinks, 2 bags of cement, and foodstuffs.
‘On 16 July, 7 suspected logistics suppliers were arrested with a large cache of consumables and materials likely intended for insurgents.
“On 17 July, troops of 82 Division Task Force Battalion on fighting patrol at Amuda and Chinene area engaged terrorists in Gwoza LGA, Borno State, neutralizing one while others fled under fire.
“On 18 July, 27 Task Force Brigade successfully executed a night ambush along Lambawa – Kalari road in Kaga LGA. While lying in wait, troops made contact with terrorists, killing one and recovering weapons and spare parts.
“Troops intercepted smuggled PMS concealed in sacks along Maiduguri–Mafa road, implicating individuals in cross-border fuel smuggling.
“On 20 July, troops recovered a cache of IED-making materials around Takaskala in Madagali LGA, Adamawa State, and on the same day foiled an infiltration attempt in Monguno, recovering RPG bombs, ammunition, and other combat-related items.
“On 21 July, 10 family members of terrorists surrendered to troops in Bama LGA.
“Preliminary findings indicate their departure from Gashua village to seek safety. Several collaborators and informants, including a 15-year-old suspected informant, were apprehended during intelligence-led operations.
“Acting on credible intelligence, troops intercepted a logistics-laden truck on 22 July en route to Gamboru from Maiduguri. Troops recovered a 12V 220AH solar battery, 16 200W solar panels, 3 2000W power inverters, an inverter controller, cables, and 100 pieces of gear regulators.
“Others include 2 cartons containing 60 pieces of carburetor gas, 3 fridges and food items amongst others.
“The intensified and coordinated offensives by troops of Operation HADIN KAI have significantly disrupted the logistics networks of Boko Haram and ISWAP elements.
“These efforts have not only denied terrorists critical supplies but have also weakened their operational capabilities across the theatre.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria commends the gallantry and resilience of our troops and assures Nigerians of our unwavering commitment to restoring enduring peace and security across the region.”
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