The Joint Task Force North East (JTF NE), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has recorded a major operational success with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials intended for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.
The arrest followed sustained joint security operations and intelligence-led surveillance aimed at securing Banki town in Bama Local Government Area, conducted by troops of 152 Task Force Battalion in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to military sources, the suspect was apprehended at about 5:40pm on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the Banki Central Mosque. The individual, identified as Abubakar Mustapha, was found in possession of primed IED components, suggesting an imminent attempt to carry out an attack.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is from Bama Local Government Area. Security operatives also recovered additional items linked to terrorist activities. He is currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation to determine his sponsors, collaborators, and possible connections with terrorist networks operating in the area.
In a related development, troops deployed at the Cameroon–Nigeria border gate intercepted a Peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a substance commonly used as a precursor in the production of IEDs. The vehicle and its contents were immediately taken into military custody.
Further intelligence exploitation led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer and the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total number seized to twelve bags. All suspects and recovered materials are currently in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action.
Troops of JTF NE OPHK continue to maintain dominance across their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and sustained security presence to deny terrorist groups freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in the North East and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
