By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded fresh operational successes across the theatre, including the arrest of suspected terrorists and collaborators, rescue of kidnapped civilians, and recovery of an explosive device during coordinated security operations in parts of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States.
Confirming the developments, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said the operations were part of sustained efforts to degrade terrorist capabilities and restore stability in the region. He noted that the troops acted on credible intelligence and responded swiftly to multiple security incidents across the theatre of operation.
In one of the operations, troops deployed at Ngamdu arrested two suspected terrorists identified as Haruna Adamu (32) and Ibrahim Adamu (20) during a routine engagement in the town.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects reportedly fled from Zamfara State into Yobe State. Items recovered from them included mobile phones, a power bank, identification documents, suspected illicit substances, charms, and other personal belongings. The suspects have since been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.
In a related development, troops of the 254 Battalion under Headquarters Sector 2 apprehended a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP informant, Ali Muhammad (30), at Ngamdu Market. The suspect, who had been on a watchlist, was found with cash, a mobile phone, a wallet containing identification cards, charms, a knife, and an exercise book containing phone numbers suspected to belong to terrorist contacts. He is currently in custody for detailed interrogation.
Troops also carried out a night operation in the Mubi general area of Adamawa State, where five suspected drug peddlers were arrested. During the operation, some items, including ammunition, were recovered from the suspects, who are currently assisting with ongoing investigations.
In another coordinated response, troops deployed in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, successfully rescued two kidnapped children, Barnabas Apagu (12) and Ruth Apagu (10). Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of other abducted victims still in captivity.
Similarly, 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 accordance with standard operating procedures to prevent any harm to civilians.
The military high command commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, urging them to sustain the operational momentum. It also reassured residents of the North East of its continued commitment to conducting offensive operations aimed at restoring peace, protecting lives and property, and supporting economic stability in the region. Members of the public were encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
