Troops Intercept Large Cache of IEDs, Neutralise Terrorists in Borno State Operations

Strategic Insights -

In a major breakthrough, troops under Operation HADIN KAI have intercepted a large cache of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and neutralised several Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during recent offensive operations across Borno State. The operations, which targeted terrorist strongholds in Marte, Dikwa, Gubio, Ngala, and Mafa local government areas, have demonstrated the military's commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action and restoring lasting peace to the North-East region. The timely discovery of the IEDs, which were strategically hidden near a bridge linking Marte and Dikwa, averted what could have been a major tragedy in the volatile North East region.

Key Takeaways:

  • Troops under Operation HADIN KAI intercepted a large cache of approximately 60 heavily primed IEDs on July 3, strategically hidden near a bridge linking Marte and Dikwa.
  • The IEDs, believed to have been planted to sabotage national infrastructure and cause mass casualties, were recovered before they could be detonated, averting a major tragedy in the North East region.
  • Multiple operations were conducted in Marte, Dikwa, Gubio, Ngala, and Mafa local government areas, resulting in the capture of a terrorist fighter and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and a large quantity of ammunition.
  • Troops also encountered insurgents in Mussini, Ngala LGA, and after a fierce gun battle, the terrorists fled in disarray, leaving behind AK-47 rifles, jerrycans of premium motor spirit (PMS), motorcycles, and insurgent uniforms.
  • Another group of OPHK troops engaged terrorists in a firefight in the Salekwa area of Mafa LGA, killing several and recovering more rifles, loaded magazines, and the corpse of one neutralised insurgent.
  • The Theatre Command credited the success of these operations to the resilience and professionalism of the troops, aided by close air support from the Air Component of OPHK and enhanced coordination with other security agencies.
  • The operations mark a renewed push to deny terrorists freedom of action and restore lasting peace to the North-East region.

Statistics:

  • 60 heavily primed IEDs were intercepted by troops on July 3.
  • 1 terrorist fighter was captured in Fulatari, Gubio LGA.
  • 7 AK-47 rifles, several jerrycans of PMS, motorcycles, and insurgent uniforms were recovered in Mussini, Ngala LGA.
  • Multiple rifles and loaded magazines were recovered in the Salekwa area of Mafa LGA.
  • 1 neutralised insurgent was recovered in the Salekwa area of Mafa LGA.

Sources:

  • Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Theatre Command, July 3 statement.