By Our Correspondent
National News – Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation HADIN KAI have intercepted suspected terrorist supplies and arrested 16 suspects during intensified military operations in Nigeria’s North-East region.
The arrests and seizures occurred on Monday during coordinated patrols and intelligence-led operations targeting insurgent logistics networks in Borno State and surrounding areas.
The Nigerian Army disclosed that soldiers from the 3 Battalion (Mechanised) acted on credible intelligence to intercept supplies believed to be meant for terrorist groups operating along the Nigeria–Cameroon border.
The operation took place in Gamboru/Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State, where troops discovered and seized 19 jerrycans filled with Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) alongside two carts suspected to have been used for transporting the fuel.
According to the Army’s operational report, the suspected smugglers abandoned the fuel and carts while attempting to escape as troops advanced along known smuggling routes frequently used to supply insurgent groups.
The fuel, believed to be part of a logistical network supporting terrorist operations, was successfully recovered.
In a separate operation along the Biu–Buratai–Kamuya road in Biu Local Government Area, soldiers intercepted 16 individuals suspected of collaborating with terrorist elements.
The suspects reportedly claimed to be members of hybrid forces assisting security agencies.
However, a thorough search led to the discovery of suspicious items including ammunition, magazines, materials used for assembling improvised explosive devices (IEDs), military gear, and multiple mobile phones.
Security sources stated that the recovery of these items raised serious concerns about possible links to terrorist activities in the region.
The suspects are currently undergoing further investigation to determine their level of involvement.
Meanwhile, troops responding to suspicious movements by insurgents in Chibok Local Government Area engaged the fighters in a brief gun battle.
The terrorists reportedly retreated after encountering resistance from the soldiers.
The Army added that troops have intensified offensive operations under Operation Desert Sanity V, conducting aggressive patrols and clearance missions across Sectors 3 and 4.
These operations are aimed at disrupting terrorist supply chains, dismantling criminal networks, and restricting insurgents’ freedom of movement across the North-East theatre.
Military authorities say sustained pressure from ongoing operations is expected to weaken terrorist logistics and improve security stability in the region.
