The Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, has achieved a major breakthrough in its counter-terrorism operations in Nigeria’s North East with the identification of a key suspect linked to recent suicide bombing attempts in the region.
According to the military, the suspect, Shariff Umar, also known as Yusuf, has been identified as the principal coordinator of suicide bombing activities operating around Maiduguri and neighbouring areas.
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The identification followed an intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operation conducted in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025, during which 14 suspects were arrested.
Military investigations revealed that Shariff Umar was responsible for recruiting, indoctrinating, and directing suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics related to improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
A suspect currently in custody reportedly identified him as the ringleader of the terror network.
Operation HADIN KAI further linked Shariff Umar to the suicide bombing attack at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, as well as a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, Yobe State.
Investigators also uncovered connections involving members of the suspect’s household, a development the military says will strengthen ongoing efforts to dismantle the wider terror network.
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The Joint Task Force confirmed that all suspects remain in custody and are undergoing thorough investigations aimed at identifying additional collaborators and recovering remaining materials used by the group.
The military reiterated its call on members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that strong cooperation between security agencies and local communities remains critical to ending terrorism and restoring lasting peace in the region.